Water Management on Raspberry Farm on the South of Portugal
Water management plays a key role in Portuguese agriculture, considering the challenges posed by climate change. Rising temperatures, more frequent drought periods, and increasing variability in precipitation and in water availability, making the adoption of more efficient strategies essential.
In the specific case of The Summer Berry Company, located in semi-arid regions of Portugal, a responsible water management and mitigating the risks associated with water scarcity are key objectives of the company’s environmental strategy. The main commitments include:
- Maintaining continuous assessment of the farm’s water resources and developing a management plan adapted to their current state
- Reducing water consumption and increasing overall efficiency in its use (irrigation systems adapted to local conditions, regular water consumption monitoring through precision equipment (humidity sensors))
- Preserving and improving water quality in ecosystems by planting species in water lines to avoid nutrient runoff
- Maximizing water reuse and recycling by installing water reservoirs
- Using greywater for hedge irrigation and other unproductive areas
In 2024, the company successfully increased the use of sustainable water sources, with 60% of the water used on its farms coming from storing rainwater and using open and closed hydraulic irrigation systems. This figure represents an increase compared to 2023 (53%) and 2022 (43%). As a result, dependence on the Santa Clara Dam was reduced to just 40%.
Finally, light and shade regulation is another key strategy. Shading nets are periodically adjusted according to weather conditions, covering plants on hot days to reduce excessive evaporation. On more humid days, the nets are removed to stimulate plant activity and maintain the photosynthesis process. This approach not only promotes the healthy development of crops but also contributes to water conservation, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability.
Climate Farm Demo
Ongoing | 2022-2029
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Serbia