Challenges in utilization and management of water resources of the Camenca river basin in the context of intensified human impact

Abstract

This article is dedicated to the evaluation of water use and management of 12 river water bodies delineated in the Camenca river basin – the biggest tributary of the Prut River in the limits of the Republic of Moldova. The study is based on the approaches and methodology proposed by the EU Water Framework Directive and its methodological guidelines as well as on the national normative documents. The present research was conducted as part of the Camenca river basin management plan and constitutes the basis for the development of the Programme of Measures meant to accomplish the environmental objectives established for water bodies. Considering water use problems in the limits of the pilot basin, in the present research several challenges were identified: intensification of climate change and reduction of water supply; reduced accessibility of the population to aqueducts and the lack of public sewerage systems; significant impact of diffuse pollution on agriculture; a large number of reservoirs in improper conditions. With regards to water resources management, the following issues were revealed: incomplete inventory of water resources and frequent cases of unauthorised water use; low prices for water supply and sewerage services as well as for water use and water pollution, which do not cover water use costs and investments in water resources and aquatic ecosystems protection; insufficient and fragmented subventions in water sector; issues regarding legal framework and adequate exploitation regime of reservoirs, etc.

Keywords

• camenca river basin
• water use
• water management