The anti-transfer movement criticized the Taula de Consens pel Delta, composed of irrigators and local councils, for submitting a proposal to the Ebro Hydrographic Confederation (CHE) to reduce the flow from 80 to 65 cubic meters per second between May and August during drought periods. The PDE warns that this measure would exacerbate saltwater wedge intrusion, affect shellfish production and fisheries, and hinder access to the port of Deltebre.
“"Our surprise was seeing within the allegations the proposal for this downward reduction of the flow that must pass from Xerta to the mouth because we do not understand that the ecological flows of lagoons and bays must come at the expense of the ecological flow needed by the final stretch of the Ebro."
The PDE recalls that its historical position has been to demand that the water used for rice cultivation, which eventually flows into the lagoons and bays, be considered part of the ecological flow. According to the platform, the current proposal “dynamites” this opportunity and opens a “fissure” for future reductions, especially if state parties like PP or Vox decide to push for water transfers from the Ebro, reopening historical conflicts such as the mini-transfer to Tarragona.
“"I understand everyone's concern, but we must look closely at what we did, what happened in these two years, and now we are at a moment when new decisions must be made. It is important that we can guarantee not only the ecological status of the river but also the ecological status of all natural spaces in the Ebro delta."
The Government Delegate in Terres de l’Ebre, Joan Castor Gonell, described the scenario as “delicate” and accepted the Taula de Consens approach to dealing with new drought episodes. Gonell argued that during certain times of the year, such as the summer months, and for short intervals, the reduction of the flow in the central trunk of the Ebro could be assumed to prioritize the survival of the lagoons and bays, which were severely affected during the 2023 drought.
