Water Management Policy in Israel: A Comprehensive Approach

Abstract

The problem identified in the study is water scarcity as opposed to the proper allocation of existing water resources. In principle, it is improbable that parties to the “water conflict” may reach any agreement on proper principles (namely distribution of existing sources) in the face of an absolute supply constraint. One must work, then, with the assumption of one single society between the Mediterranean and Jordan and the assumption that this society will face a common challenge at the beginning of the next century when its total potential of fresh water is fully exploited for drinking purposes. The problems of an acute supply shortage, protection of existing fresh water resources from contamination, and the preparation of non-conventional water resources must be dealt with from a multi-disciplinary standpoint. It is necessary to set priorities in dealing with the above issues as it is deemed unfeasible to cope with the challenges of sewage reclamation and sea water desalination at the same time. -In terms of the water supply problem (current shortfall/ future supply), while the future resource of water is indeed the sea, this need only holds true once all fresh water is exploited for drinking purposes and all reclaimed sewage is treated for agricultural use. The additional cost added to sewage treatment is lower than the cost of desalination as well as the cost of using conventional water resources. Moving to the sea therefore depends on the extent to which the cost of desalinated water will or will not increase the cost of food production. A broad economic approach is advocated: While constructing sewage treatment plants it is necessary to simultaneously initiate the planning of desalination projects (given an implementation period of 15–20 years). -In terms of water quality/contamination problem, the main concern lies with Israel's sea shore aquifer. The danger to the aquifer's water quality comes from constant seepage of encroaching sea water and the constant recycling of the same resource for irrigation. It is felt that the only way to restore the aquifer's water quality is by ceasing recycled usage of its water. It is suggested that water from the aquifer should be pumped and carried away for irrigation and that the aquifer should simultaneously be replenished with sweet water brought in from outside (i.e. desalination). Desalination is therefore advocated as a (conditional) source for additional water and for the reclamation of the sea shore aquifer. The Jezreel Valley Canal Scheme authored by Shlomo Gur is felt to be the most feasible desalination scheme as it saves 60 percent of the energy required by other desalination methods. Cooperation is needed between Israel and Jordan for the implementation of this scheme.