The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has allocated P50 million to Abra province to launch solar pump irrigation projects aimed at mitigating the impacts of El Niño and drought. Ronald Bisquerra, the provincial head of NIA Abra, announced that the pilot projects will commence this year in Namarabar, Peñarrubia, and Bangued.
Bisquerra emphasized the significance of using solar pumps to tap into groundwater as a solution for combating drought and El Niño. He highlighted the importance of studying and concentrating on groundwater to enhance water availability.
In addition to solar pump irrigation, NIA Abra is exploring various solutions to assist farmers in coping with severe drought conditions. Bisquerra discussed initiatives such as training sessions on alternate wetting and drying techniques, along with teaching farmers to rotate water delivery schedules. These measures aim to augment drought mitigation efforts by conserving water and optimizing irrigation practices.
Alternate wetting and drying methods involve allocating specific days for irrigating crops and allowing farmlands to dry on alternate days. By implementing this water conservation technique, farmers can maximize water usage and irrigate larger areas effectively.
Furthermore, NIA Abra conducts daily monitoring to provide timely assistance to farmers affected by severe drought. Recently, they identified and supported farmers tilling two hectares of drought-affected land.
Despite efforts to provide water pumps to affected areas, some farmers opted not to proceed due to the high cost of diesel-operated pumps. Instead, they chose to report crop damage to Crop Insurance, highlighting the financial challenges faced by farmers during drought periods.
The solar pump irrigation projects, coupled with training initiatives and daily monitoring, demonstrate Abra province’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by drought and El Niño. With sustainable water management practices and innovative solutions, the province aims to enhance agricultural resilience and support farmers in maintaining livelihoods amidst adverse climatic conditions.
