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This is an image of the reconstructed Byzantine Farmstead at Shivta. Four terraces, with trees and other vegetation, have formed behind the reconstructed Byzantine dams. Even though this "farmstead" has been untended for years, the trees are still growing on their own!! All grown without mechanical irrigation!
The trees in this image at least include pomegranate, olive, carob, and some vines.
This area of the Negev receives only 3.5 in. of rain in an "average" year. Water, and soil(!), from the surrounding hills were/are diverted to the area behind the dam where topsoil and water collected. By concentrating the runoff here, 3.5 in. rain was converted to about 10 in.! Thus crops were able to grow there!
Contrary to previous opinions, the agricultural systems, that fed winepresses such as this, instead of dating to the Nabatean Period, actually were built during the Byzantine Period—beginning in the fifth century AD and continuing in use until the late seventh or early eighth century AD.
Please also note the barren surrounding countryside. This area only receives 3.5 in. of rain per year. This picture was taken in July—the middle of the dry season in Israel.
