Abstract: Through over 20 years of dryland farming comprehensive researches, many achievements had been obtained. The dryland agricultural types in north China were systematically classified. The basic information on rainfall utilization was obtained, the rules of field water dynamic movement and water balance of the north dryland farming areas were revealed. The obstacle factors and suitable extent of exploitation were clarified for the precipitation production potentialities of dryland farming in north china. A series of key technologies for drought resistance and water saving were produced, and a few of planting model and adaptable technology systems for high efficient water use were developed. Based on all these results, agricultural developing strategies and plans related to dryland farming were worked out, all these achievements provide strong scientific and technological support for the agriculture development of dryland farming areas in China.

Key words: Dryland farming , Science and technology , Agricultural development , China