Case Study: Accurate, Continuous Flow Measurement Ensures Efficient Use of Irrigation Water

It is estimated that Spain has approximately 40,000 Hm3/year of available water, which would normally be regarded as sufficient. However, irregular weather patterns and contrasting geographical areas result in serious water shortages. For example, the Southern and Central Mediterranean river basins represent 41% of Spanish territory and accommodate 37% of the population, but only benefit from 19% of the total water resources.

In Spain, irrigation increases productivity six-fold and profi tability four-fold. As a result, irrigation is a fundamental activity within Spanish agriculture. Spain now has a total irrigated surface of 8.4 million acres. Th is generates 1.2 % of the country's Gross National Product.