Storing Freshwater for the Dry Season

The Tien Giang Department of Agriculture and Rural Development predicts saltwater intrusion during the 2024-2025 dry season will be similar to the previous season, with potential for higher levels at certain times. To combat this, local authorities are dredging canals and clearing waterways to facilitate inland irrigation for over 20,000 hectares of winter-spring rice. The Go Cong Sweetening Project will commence freshwater storage operations on December 25, 2024, ensuring ample fresh water for agriculture and daily life. During this period, canal water levels will rise, and sluice gates will restrict discharge, releasing water only when salinity exceeds acceptable levels. Additional sluice gates in My Tho City will also store freshwater, benefiting orchards and gardens in surrounding areas. Tien Giang province boasts seven operational saltwater prevention sluice gates regulating water sources for specialty fruit cultivation, including durian fruit, along the Tien River. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development advises farmers to monitor salinity and prepare response plans. In Ngu Hiep commune, a major durian fruit producing area, farmers are proactively storing water based on salinity forecasts and utilizing water-saving irrigation techniques.