Creating facts on the ground: Agriculture in Israel and Palestine (1882-2000)

This article outlines how the conflict over land and water resources on the territory of Israel/Palestine has shaped the agricultural systems on either side of the green line. Using a variety of sources we trace the co-evolution of land use practices, institutions and technological innovation from the Ottoman period to the present. Israeli agriculture is applauded around the world for its cooperative forms of agricultural organizations such as the kibbutz or moshav, as well as for water-saving technological advancements including drip irrigation and wastewater re-use. This article examines the evolution of these innovations, examining the institutional and ideological underpinnings of the unique agricultural system in Israel. We also examine Palestinian agriculture and how the conflict and restricted access to resources has shaped its evolution. In conclusion, it discusses how territorial conflict over resources has contributed to the (un)sus-tainability of the respective agricultural systems. © 2009 SEHA.