Between November 20th and 22nd, our project hosted its second in-person meeting at the Complutense University of Madrid, in Madrid, Spain. This time, with all the early career researchers fully on board! During the event, we focused on refining the methodology of our work packages. This included technical aspects, such as discussing adaptation measures to incorporate into our models, as well as tailoring interviews and events to engage stakeholders effectively. We also had stimulating discussions on creating a healthy working environment, addressing key topics like gender equality and inclusivity.
Using the theory of change framework, we explored our goals and the intermediate steps necessary to achieve our ultimate impact: supporting a groundwater-informed agenda at various scales, ensuring that unintended consequences of adaptation measures to drought are considered.
On Friday, we visited our case study site in Spain: the Alfamén aquifer area. This region is home to vineyards that produce wine under the Denominación de Origen Cariñena. Groundwater resources are essential for sustaining the region’s intensive agricultural activities, which take place under semi-arid conditions.
The area also showcased innovative water management systems. For instance, managed aquifer recharge is utilized along some ephemeral streams to enhance water availability, addressing challenges posed by unsustainable irrigation demands. In the city of Calatorao, we visited the Fuente de las Escaleras, a structure of Arab origin dating back to the 10th century. This historical site utilizes a natural spring, which allowed locals to access water directly.
GroundedExtremes 