Jeonnam Province Launches All-Out Effort to Secure and Supply Agricultural Water for Summer

Preemptive Inspection Planned for 3,207 Agricultural Reservoirs to Ensure Stable Supply
Well Development and Doombung Installation Underway
Customized Water Supply Strategies Also Being Developed

Jeonnam Province announced on July 14 that it has conducted intensive inspections of more than 3,000 agricultural reservoirs to secure irrigation water and manage reservoir water levels, in a preemptive response to recent heatwaves and a short monsoon season that have resulted in insufficient rainfall.

This inspection comprehensively covered key items directly related to the supply of agricultural water, including the current status of reservoir water levels, the operational condition of water intake facilities, the presence of leaks, and the status of securing alternative water sources. The aim is to prevent water shortages in advance.

Among a total of 3,207 agricultural reservoirs, 46 reservoirs designated as priority management sites?either because their storage capacity is insufficient compared to their service area or because they experience water supply shortages every year?are currently being refilled with water. To prevent their water levels from falling below 50%, emergency water supply equipment and personnel, such as nearby wells and pumping stations, are being deployed as a priority.

In addition, to prepare for a prolonged heatwave this summer, the province plans to establish a rapid response system linked to weather information, and will continue to implement agricultural water measures by focusing budget and administrative resources on developing wells, installing temporary pumping stations and water pipelines, and building small reservoirs (doombung), as well as formulating customized water supply strategies tailored to each region.

Park Hyunsik, Director of the Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Bureau of Jeonnam Province, stated, "Water shortages can cause critical damage to crop growth even in a short period, so advance preparation is crucial." He added, "We will do our utmost to secure and supply agricultural water so that residents can continue their farming activities stably without worrying about water shortages."