By CESAR JOLITO III

The Federation of Irrigators’ Association of Central Negros – Bago River Irrigation System (FIACN-BRIS) has stepped up preparations for the possible effects of the El Niño phenomenon following a noticeable decline in the water level of the Bago River Irrigation System dam.

FIACN-BRIS President Padro Limpangog said the latest monitoring showed that the dam’s water level has dropped compared to previous observations, prompting irrigation officials to closely monitor the situation and implement measures to help secure water supply for farmers.

The Bago River Irrigation System supplies irrigation water to more than 13,000 hectares of rice fields and serves over 8,000 farmers across Negros Occidental, making it one of the province’s major irrigation networks.

Despite the decline in water levels, Limpangog said there is currently no need to implement rotational water distribution, where irrigation water is alternately supplied on a one-week-on, one-week-off schedule.

He said irrigation authorities are instead prioritizing water delivery to areas where rice cultivation is already underway, particularly in the northern district.

According to Limpangog, farmers in the northern district are expected to begin planting rice next week, while those in the southern district are already in the vegetative stage of crop growth.

He also noted a change in the dam’s condition during his recent inspection.

Previously, excess water was overflowing from the dam into the river, but the water level has since dropped to the point where it is now level with the structure.

However, the irrigation gates remain open to allow water to flow into the irrigation system and sustain the needs of farmers.

Limpangog said FIACN-BRIS will continue monitoring water levels and coordinate with irrigators to ensure efficient water management as the province prepares for the anticipated dry conditions associated with El Niño./CCJ, WDJ