Baix Ter adopts 'sponge territory' model to prevent flooding

The Hidronet project invests three million euros in nature-based solutions for river management.

Generic image of a wetland area and river vegetation for water retention.
IA

Generic image of a wetland area and river vegetation for water retention.

The Hidronet Baix Ter project was presented this Friday in Torroella de Montgrí, aiming to transform water management through a wetland network to reduce flood risks in the region.

This initiative, with a budget of nearly 3 million euros, is co-funded by the Biodiversity Foundation through NextGenerationEU European funds. The model replaces traditional drainage with a 'sponge territory' system designed to temporarily retain water and enhance the Ter River biodiversity.
Since October 2022, actions have been carried out in municipalities such as Gualta, Ullà, and Torroella de Montgrí. Works included riverbed renaturalization and invasive species removal. Experts from the University of Girona state this approach addresses both drought and flooding challenges.

"It is about jointly addressing two phenomena typical of the Mediterranean climate, such as drought and floods, two sides of the same reality."

UdG Experts · Scientific team
While the system proved effective in Ullà during recent storms, some residents have expressed concerns regarding the long-term maintenance of these green infrastructures. Partners like the Girona Provincial Council emphasize the project's role in regional resilience.