The main purpose of this project is to evaluate the sustainability of the use and re-use of traditional groundwater extraction systems called qanats. Qanats are subterranean tunnels that tap the groundwater and lead the water based on gravity to a human settlement and agricultural lands. Qanats played a tremendously important role in the spread of irrigated agriculture and the establishment of sophisticated settlements in dry areas. In modern times, social, technological and economical transformation processes have greatly influenced the traditional use of qanats. The project uses action development research and a livelihood approach to help in the evaluation of the sustainability of use and renovation these ancient irrigation systems in Syria.