The Punyaro, Ecuador project has just begun work!

The water system that supplies the communities of Punyaro, La Joya, and Santiaguillo consists of two main systems operating in parallel, each drawing water from a different source and directing it to four storage tanks. Like most water sources in this region, both catchments are fed by infiltration from the Mojanda lagoon. The water rights for both sources have been renewed with the Ministry of the Environment through the year 2031, but the authorized flow rate has not been updated in over 20 years despite a clear increase in the population. Due to the limited flow, especially during the dry season, the outlet valves of the tanks are closed at night to allow them to refill. The valves are reopened in the morning; however, it is often reported that by around 11a.m., the tanks are already empty. Currently, the extraction of a total flow rate of 6 L/s is authorized, but a recent study conducted by the Ministry of the Environment indicates that the system will require a flow rate of 10.84 L/s to meet the projected population growth over the next 20 years. The community’s current objective is to increase the water flow in their system.

Want to get involved? Contact ecuadorlead@ewbportlandmaine.org to get more information on project meetings and upcoming trips!