At IRTA, we have conducted a study on the water requirements of the Canals d’Urgell to address the irrigation allocation review proposed by the Ebro River Basin Authority (CHE). This study, commissioned by the General Community of Irrigators of the Canals d’Urgell (CGRCU), analyzes the current and future water needs of crops, considering irrigation modernization and the effects of climate change.
According to our estimates, water demand could increase by 11.2% in the coming years, while crop productivity would rise by 11.1% with the implementation of efficient irrigation systems. These figures highlight the importance of ensuring adequate water allocations to secure the economic viability and sustainability of the agricultural sector.
As our general director, Josep Usall, points out, "The easing of drought restrictions is good news, but water must continue to be managed responsibly. The study we have delivered to CGRCU provides a rigorous analysis of the irrigation needs of the Canals d’Urgell area, considering both current and future scenarios. Ensuring adequate water allocations for crops and continuing to invest in irrigation modernization are key to efficient and sustainable water resource management."
Additionally, Joan Girona, a researcher in IRTA’s Efficient Water Use program, emphasizes that “Irrigation modernization can help optimize water use, but the effects of climate change will offset part of these savings.”
The study also outlines different scenarios for 2040, showing that crop water needs will vary depending on the combination of cultivated crops and future climatic conditions. The results of this analysis have been submitted to CGRCU, which will use them in its appeals process before the CHE to defend irrigators' rights and ensure an adequate water supply.
At IRTA, we continue to work to provide knowledge and evidence-based solutions to improve water resource management and address the challenges of the agricultural sector in the context of climate change.
