Water Network Modernisation in the Balearic Islands

New systems allow for more accurate monitoring of the water cycle across the archipelago

What does it consist of?

The project has made it possible to upgrade flow control infrastructure in rivers and streams in the Balearic Islands. Thanks to new stations and automated monitoring systems, there is now greater technical capacity to study the water cycle.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
Improvement, automation and implementation of new gauging stations in the hydrographic network of the Balearic Islands
LOCATION
Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza, Formentera
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Govern de les Illes Balears
Entity that executes the project
Conselleria de Medi Ambient i Territori
Project code
ITS2016-015
Total project amount
762.500 €
ITS granted amount
762.500 €
Executed amount
761.080 €
Call year
2016
Execution status
Executed
Purpose
Research (R+D+I)
Budget execution
Executed: 99.81%
Last data request
26.09.2023

The project

Gauging stations are essential tools for determining the flow and volume of water that passes through surface waterways. In regions with limited water resources such as the Balearic Islands, having accurate, up-to-date data is crucial for water planning and management. The project has sought to fully upgrade the water network, which is part of the monitoring system established by the Flood Risk Management Plan.

With a budget of €762,500, the action has focused on improving existing stations, constructing new monitoring points, and digitalising the system with state-of-the-art computer equipment. In total, 37 gauging stations have been included in the works in Mallorca (32), Menorca (3) and Ibiza (2), where technology for automatic data collection has been installed and programmed.

Many of the network’s stations had become outdated or were poorly positioned, with equipment that did not allow for effective monitoring. The works have addressed these shortcomings to ensure monitoring meets current standards. Beyond providing essential data for monitoring the water cycle, this technological improvement will enable early warnings to be established during episodes of heavy rainfall.

The data generated by this network also helps to support decision-making related to water infrastructure, land planning and climate change adaptation. By modernising the water network, the project strengthens the capacity of the authorities to manage water resources sustainably and to anticipate potential impacts in a context of increasing environmental pressure.