Natural Resources of Palestine

Abstract

PALESTINE, a region whose natural resources seemed limited as compared with those of other countries, has, through pressure of circum? stances, seen wide developments in the course of the past fifteen years. New methods of utilizing underground water resources have, for example, made possible a new extension of agriculture. In estimating the potentialities of the country, the progress of modern technical developments requires the abandonment of the old conception of possibilities that were naturally preconditioned. Whereas prior to the War Palestine had been a predominantly agricultural area, conditions have considerably changed during the two postwar decades. It is true that up to the present day the primary source of living of the bulk of Arab population has been agriculture; and citrus culture?one of the spheres in which the most remarkable extension of post-war times occurred?is likewise connected with and dependent on the soil. At the same time however there is a tendency towards urban callings, particularly in connection with industry and transport. Nevertheless, for some time to come the extent of cultivable land as well as agricultural possibilities will exercise the greatest influence on the growth of population and on its economic development. The area of the country is estimated at 27,000 sq. km., 10,000 sq. km. thereof being cultivated land. The estimates of cultivable area vary, and in view of the importance of this problem, it will be dealt with later in more detail. In spite of the small size of the country there is a remarkable difference in its natural conditions, and consequently in its agricultural zones. It may therefore be expedient to deal first with the climatic conditions and their effects.