CABANATUAN CITY – The National Irrigation Administration-Upper Pampanga River Integrated and Irrigation Systems (NIA-UPRIIS) which operates the mammoth Pantabangan Dam has put up a micro-irrigation system that serves as an alternative way to water the different plantation sites within the watershed area amid the approaching dry season.

NIA-UPRIIS chief Engr. Rosalinda B. Bote said this novel idea of installing watering equipment using recycled 1.5-liter plastic bottles and bamboo culms was actually a “brainchild” of the UPRIIS dam and reservoir division and the watershed management section led respectively by Engrs. Ernesto D. Ponce and Daryl V. Pascua.

Bote said this unique micro-irrigation system allows water to drip slowly to the roots of the plants to save water and nutrients.

She said the containers are refilled every 3 days at the plantation sites located in Abuyo, Maluyon, Pascual, and alongside the Aya and Cabugbugan monitoring stations.

The UPRIIS chief explained that the watering process aims not only to lessen the mortality of planted seedlings due to lack of water and drought at the mountainous plantation sites but also to promote solid waste management.

The said 1.5-liter plastic bottles were gathered, collected, and recycled, while the bamboo culms were harvested within the Maluyon plantation area.

Engr. Bote said she and DRD manager Ponce, are hopeful that this project shall be exercised continually for the productive growth of planted trees in the said sites.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Steve A. Gosuico