El Niño phenomenon: Azuero ranchers warn of water crisis, urge state aid

Ranchers in Panama's Azuero region are sounding the alarm over a severe water and pasture crisis, exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon. The critical situation in the area known as the Dry Arch has placed the agricultural sector under immense strain, with producers in Herrera and Los Santos provinces reporting historic lows in streams and watering holes.

This scarcity of water and the poor condition of pastures have put local producers on high alert. The impact of the drought threatens their livelihoods and the viability of their operations. In response to the escalating crisis, the National Government has declared a state of emergency.

Producers have welcomed the declaration, expressing confidence that it will streamline bureaucratic processes and accelerate the delivery of essential supplies and financial assistance. Immediate measures to combat the drought include water harvesting initiatives, focusing on rehabilitating existing infrastructure. Plans are underway to repair at least 10 mini-dams in local streams and rivers.

These projects, described as requiring minimal investment due to their nature as previously planned works, are designed to capture rainwater throughout the remainder of the year. The goal is to mitigate the severe effects of the upcoming dry season and provide some relief to the struggling agricultural community.