Base de données des projets PDR
Private Groundwater Sources Metering
Summary
The development of on-farm infrastructure required to measure and monitor the amount of groundwater extracted for agricultural purposes will help alleviate farmers groundwater problems and contribute to water conservation.
Video:
Background
Over time it has become evident that over-exploitation of Malta’s limited groundwater sources has resulted in a gradual but steady deterioration of the groundwater quality, especially due to saltwater intrusion. In addition, no control and monitoring of what was extracted by private parties was being carried out. The government decided that all groundwater extracted from private boreholes need to be accounted for and has thus adopted a strategy to meter, monitor and eventually control all groundwater abstraction, whilst at the same time delivering alternative water resources.
Objective
The objective is to account for the water use and eventually to limit extraction to reverse the saltwater intrusion. The idea behind metering of groundwater is to provide a clear indication of how much water is being abstracted and the metering of private wells aims to provide this figure.
Main activities
The project activities concern the supply and installation of water meters on private groundwater boreholes to account for all private extraction aimed solely for agricultural use. The project will also provide pipelines for treated sewerage effluent for agricultural areas that meet current irrigation standards.
Results & Benefits
The farmers will benefit because the meter installation will help Malta to have better control of both the quantity and quality of groundwater resources, thus reducing the need for energy-intensive technologies to produce potable water supplies. The reduction in energy requirements will reduce Malta’s carbon footprint which is the focus of energy and climate change strategies.
Lessons learnt
Most agricultural activities depend on groundwater and over-extraction has reduced this water source. A critical factor is the awareness of farmers of the importance of measuring groundwater so as to monitor water use for irrigation purposes and other agricultural activities.
Project location and other information
Malta and Gozo
Region
Gozo and Comino/Ghawdex u Kemmuna
RDP Territory
Malta
Total project cost (€)
2 222 000
EAFRD contribution (€)
1 499 850
National contribution (€)
499 950
Private contribution (€)
222 200
Contact name
Stephen Galea St.John
Telephone
+35622443390
Languages for contact
English, Maltese
At a glance
Country
Malta
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers, Other
Budget range
> €500 000
Start date:
03/10/2011
End Date:
31/12/2013
Theme / Measure:
Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
125. Infrastructure related to the development and adaptation of agriculture and forestry
Keywords:
Climate action, Irrigation, Environmental impact, Waste water, Water
Last update
18/12/2013