NIA assures irrigation for Region I dry season

As Northern Luzon transitions from the wet to dry season, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region 1 is implementing proactive measures to ensure a sustained water supply for farmers amid expected shortages.

In an interview with NIA Region 1 Manager Engr. Geffrey Catulin, he said the agency’s priority is to maximize available water resources and distribute them equitably across irrigators’ associations.

“Our focus now is on maximizing available water resources and ensuring that every farmer gets their fair share,” Catulin said. “We have coordinated closely with our Irrigators Associations to implement systematic water delivery schedules and rotational irrigation, especially prioritizing standing and high-value crops.”

Among the measures being rolled out are strict monitoring of water sources, rotation plans, and inter-agency coordination to harmonize cropping schedules. Catulin said daily monitoring of reservoir and diversion inflows/outflows allows the agency to optimize releases and maintain efficiency throughout the dry season.

He added that the NIA is also promoting water-saving technologies, such as Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and short-duration crop varieties, to help reduce water demand while maintaining high yields.

When asked about backup plans, Catulin assured that contingency systems are ready should water levels drop further.

“We have contingency and backup mechanisms already in place,” he explained. “These include our groundwater and pump irrigation systems, solar-powered pumps, and preventive maintenance programs to ensure canals and structures remain functional.”

The NIA has identified strategic deep wells and shallow tube wells that can be activated to supplement water delivery. The agency is also expanding the installation of solar-powered irrigation systems (SPIS) to reduce dependence on surface water. Preventive maintenance and desilting works are also being carried out to avoid water loss and improve delivery efficiency.

Catulin also underscored the importance of crop diversification among farmers, particularly in low-lying and remote areas, to optimize land use and improve resilience during prolonged dry spells.

“We are promoting diversification so farmers can adapt and still earn even when water becomes scarce,” he said.

Lastly, the regional manager noted that Emergency Response Protocols are already in place, with NIA’s Operations and Maintenance teams on standby for any unexpected droughts or mechanical breakdowns.

“Our teams are ready 24/7 to respond to any irrigation-related emergencies. The goal is to make sure our farmers continue planting and harvesting without fear of losing their crops due to lack of water,” Catulin concluded.