This study aims to determine and analyze the impact of the modernization project on groundwater exploitation across the pilot area of 4045 ha on the Tadla irrigation scheme. The fieldwork was essential for the collection of data on water withdrawal from surface and groundwater. It has been also essential to demonstrate the presence of pumping at the sector level. This fieldwork allows us to assess the performance of the groundwater use at the farm level, thanks to surveys on pumping and irrigation practices, as well as to temperature sensors and flow measurements. An exhaustive census was also made in the pilot sector. These surveys showed that 74% of farmers have their groundwater catchment structure. However, the exploitation of this resource started to decrease (7% use only groundwater) compared to the situation before the project.
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The results prove the presence of pumping at the sector level with less than 1800 m3/ha/yr. However, the contribution of percolation, of both irrigation water and precipitation, to the recharge of the aquifer is estimated at 1810 m3/ha/yr. In conclusion, this project helps to better assess the groundwater-farmer relationship. Thus, it has a positive impact on the groundwater future and its sustainability.
