The Role of Groundwater in Spain's Water Policy

Abstract

Groundwater use in Spain has increased dramatically in the second half of the twentieth century. Today, groundwater is the primary source of drinking water for almost 13 million people. It is also helping transform irrigated agriculture. Groundwater irrigation accounts for more than 50 percent of the total economic value of irrigated agricultural production in Spain, while it only consumes about 20 percent of the total volume of water. However, intensive groundwater use has also resulted in serious environmental problems in some areas; in particular, negative impacts to groundwater dependant ecosystems and problems in coastal aquifers due to saltwater intrusion. In spite of its socioeconomic and environmental significance, groundwater has not been a significant part of Spanish water policy. In order to maintain the benefits derived from groundwater use and to avoid or mitigate the negative impacts, some changes are necessary. First, the structure, operation, and goals of Basin Management Agencies need to be transformed to better reflect new social priorities, economic realities, and environmental goals. Second, it is imperative to finally resolve the chaotic situation of groundwater use rights in Spain. Finally, it is necessary to implement an effective user participation system for groundwater management through the promotion and consolidation of groundwater users associations.