CONTROLHYDRO Operational Group: Controlled irrigation for improved crop quality and production by combining the use of biomass resources in vineyards and olive groves

The CONTROLHYDRO project arose in response to the growing water scarcity and the increasing impact of climate change on Mediterranean agriculture, especially in the vineyards and olive groves of Aragon. Rising temperatures, prolonged periods of drought, and irregular rainfall patterns are significantly reducing crop yields and affecting the quality of grapes and olives.

In the Campo de Borja region, the average annual rainfall is around 300 mm, and in recent years a marked decline in production has been observed due to water stress. Agriculture accounts for approximately 70% of total water consumption in Spain, making water use efficiency a strategic priority at the regional, national, and European levels.

The project aligns with the objectives of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023-2027, the European Green Deal, and the Farm to Fork Strategy, which promote sustainable resource management, the digitalization of agriculture, and climate resilience. Furthermore, the presence of Natura 2000 protected areas in the Jalón and Huecha river basins reinforces the need to reduce diffuse pollution and improve sustainable water management practices. Increasing environmental requirements, coupled with market demand for higher-quality and more sustainable agri-food products, are driving producers to adopt precision agriculture tools and nature-based solutions.

In this context, CONTROLHYDRO responds to regulatory and market demands by integrating controlled deficit irrigation, biochar application and digital monitoring systems to improve water efficiency, soil health and long-term sustainability of viticulture and olive production systems.