Irrigation and Its Modernization in Aragon

Abstract

The use of water for irrigation is of concern to all those involved in water management in the Autonomous Community of Aragon. This article tackles issues that relate to the modernization of existing irrigation systems, by means of consolidation and improvement programmes, as the new priority of contemporary irrigation policy. At the same time, the article considers the roles played by the various agents charged with carrying out the programmes—basically state-owned companies—and of the farmers in their irrigation communities. The positive impact of these measures in achieving better and more efficient management of water resources, as well as the negative environmental impact that derives from the new demands for energy, are also presented and discussed.