With a length of approximately 12 km, half belongs to the province of Campobasso and the remaining part to the province of Foggia. With a total capacity of 333 million cubic metres, of which 250 million are usable, it represents a crucial resource for the area’s water supply. However, the recent water loss highlights the fragility of this giant.
A SILENT DRAMA: LAKE OF OCCHITO IN CRISIS
Lake Occhito, one of the largest artificial reservoirs in Europe, is experiencing a silent drama. In just 24 hours, the water level dropped by almost one million cubic meters. The survey carried out by the Consortium for the Reclamation of the Capitanata of Foggia recorded a water availability of 127,634,300 million cubic metres, which dropped to 126,641,200 million the following day. This alarming fact raises urgent questions about the sustainability of water resources in the region.
A GIANT IN DANGER
Lake Occhito, created with a dam on the Fortore river, marks the border between Puglia and Molise for about 10 km. With a length of approximately 12 km, half belongs to the province of Campobasso and the remaining part to the province of Foggia. With a total capacity of 333 million cubic metres, of which 250 million are usable, it represents a crucial resource for the area’s water supply. However, the recent water loss highlights the fragility of this giant.
THE CAUSES OF THE CRISIS
What is causing this drastic reduction in water levels? The answer lies in a combination of factors. Prolonged drought, accentuated by climate change, has significantly reduced rainfall in the region. Furthermore, rising temperatures have accelerated the evaporation of water. These phenomena, combined with water resource management that needs review, are putting Lake Occhito to the test.
IMPACTS ON THE COMMUNITY AND AGRICULTURE
The reduction of the water level in Lake Occhito has direct repercussions on the local community and agriculture. The lake is a vital source of irrigation for crops in the area, and its decline could jeopardize harvests, putting the local agricultural economy at risk. Furthermore, water scarcity could lead to restrictions in domestic use, further exacerbating the situation.
AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE: WHAT SOLUTIONS?
Faced with this crisis, it is essential to take immediate and long-term measures to safeguard Lake Occhito. Sustainable management of water resources must become a priority. Investments in more efficient irrigation technologies, such as drip systems, could reduce water use in agriculture. Furthermore, it is essential to promote agricultural practices that conserve soil moisture and reduce evaporation.
THE ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
Environmental policies play a crucial role in the management of water resources. Coordination between local, regional and national authorities is needed to implement effective strategies. Creating emergency plans for managing water crises and adopting more stringent regulations on water use are key steps. Furthermore, raising awareness among the population on the importance of water conservation can contribute to a more responsible use of resources.
AN APPEAL TO THE COMMUNITY
The Lake Occhito crisis is a wake-up call that cannot be ignored. It is an invitation to reflect on our relationship with natural resources and to take concrete measures to protect them. Every drop of water counts, and each of us can make a difference by adopting more sustainable behaviors. Only through a collective effort can we hope to preserve Lake Occhito for future generations.
