Ecologistas en Acción La Rioja Proposes Key Reforms for Ebro Hydrological Plan
Ecologistas en Acción La Rioja has submitted detailed proposals to the fourth cycle of the Ebro Hydrological Plan (2028-2033), emphasizing the urgent need to address water scarcity and climate change impacts in the region. The organization advocates for a shift from traditional water management practices to sustainable strategies that prioritize ecological preservation and long-term resource conservation.
Opposition to Expansion of Irrigation and New Reservoirs
A central focus of the organization’s submissions is the opposition to the proposed expansion of irrigation projects, which would add approximately 28,500 hectares of new farmland. Ecologistas en Acción argues that this expansion is incompatible with the current climate crisis, characterized by recurring droughts and declining water availability. The group also rejects plans for new reservoirs in the Tirón and Alhama river basins, citing their significant environmental impact and questionable technical justification.
Protection of Rivers and Wetlands
The organization highlights the critical need to safeguard the ecological integrity of local rivers, particularly the Tirón, where minimum ecological flows are frequently violated. They call for stricter enforcement of water extraction regulations to protect endangered species such as the European mink. Ecologistas en Acción urges the protection of wetlands like the Urbión and Hervías lagoons, which face threats from over-extraction of groundwater, and eutrophication.
Sustainable Water Management Strategies
The proposals include measures to improve water quality and ensure future supply, such as reducing leaks in urban water networks, reusing treated wastewater in larger municipalities, and enhancing the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants. The group also emphasizes the importance of monitoring emerging contaminants, including PFAS and pharmaceuticals, to prevent long-term environmental harm.
Restoration of Fluvial Connectivity
A key recommendation is the removal of obsolete dams and weirs to restore natural river connectivity. The organization specifically advocates for the demolition of the La Retorna dam on the Najerilla River and the removal of barriers that fragment habitats for protected species like the Iberian desman. These actions aim to improve biodiversity and support the resilience of aquatic ecosystems.
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure and Policies
Ecologistas en Acción calls for increased investment in maintaining hydraulic infrastructure and developing drought emergency plans for vulnerable municipalities. They also promote nature-based solutions, such as restoring natural floodplains, to mitigate the risks of extreme weather events. The group stresses that the new hydrological plan must reflect the realities of climate change, moving away from outdated assumptions of water abundance.
By prioritizing ecological conservation and sustainable practices, Ecologistas en Acción La Rioja aims to ensure the long-term health of the Ebro basin’s water resources while balancing the needs of communities and ecosystems. Their proposals underscore the importance of adaptive governance in the face of escalating environmental challenges.