Krk island urges water saving: 'We will avoid restrictions only if everyone makes an effort'

The Croatian island of Krk is facing a severe water shortage, prompting an urgent appeal from local authorities for responsible water usage. The island's primary water source, the Ponikve reservoir, has reached its lowest levels in 40 years, a situation exacerbated by a prolonged drought.

Mayor of Krk and the heads of six other municipalities on the island issued a joint statement warning that water restrictions, which have not been necessary since the Ponikve dam was built in 1986, could be implemented if collective efforts to conserve water fail. They emphasized that the current period, coinciding with the peak tourist season, traditionally sees the highest water consumption.

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From the construction of the Ponikve dam in 1986, there has been no need for water restrictions on the island of Krk. We believe this will not be the case this year either, but only if we all make an additional effort together to avoid such a scenario.

As of July 31, the water level at Ponikve stood at 17.40 meters above sea level. This figure is particularly alarming when compared to historical data, with only 1989 and 2012 experiencing lower levels, periods when overall water consumption was considerably less than it is today. All other water sources on the island are also reported to be at record lows.

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The water level at the main island water source Ponikve on July 31 stands at 17.40 m a.s.l. This figure may not say much on its own, but comparison with data collected during almost 40 years of reservoir operation shows its seriousness – a lower level was recorded only in 1989 and 2012, when total water consumption was significantly lower than today.

While Krk's water supply is partially supplemented by the mainland system in Rijeka, this connection has its limitations. Approximately 90% of the available capacity is already being utilized. The current crisis is attributed to a significant deficit in rainfall during the winter and spring, crucial periods for replenishing water reserves. This year, rainfall has been about 30% below average, with only 223 l/m² recorded between March and July, compared to the usual average of around 450 l/m² for the same period, a 50% reduction.

Authorities are specifically requesting a substantial reduction in non-essential irrigation of agricultural land, limitations on watering lawns and gardens, refraining from filling swimming pools, and avoiding any unnecessary consumption of drinking water. In response, the City of Krk and the six municipalities have pledged to reduce water consumption on public green spaces by at least 30% and adjust irrigation schedules.

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Therefore, we call on all citizens, business people, and tourism workers, as well as our numerous guests, to use water responsibly and rationally in the coming period. We especially ask that the irrigation of agricultural land be significantly reduced when not necessary, that watering of lawns, gardens, and other green areas be limited, that swimming pools be filled, and that any unnecessary consumption of drinking water be avoided.