Improvements to Montserrat’s water infrastructure are already paying dividends.
Minister of BUILT-E the Honourable Veronica Dorsette Hector says spring yields have increased since the program began which includes rehabilitation to water sources, storage, and distribution.
The project comprises spring rehabilitation, reservoir improvement, and replacing aged pipelines.
She reported that the water sources at Fogarty Spring Rehabilitation Works have been completed, and that the catchments are now sheltered and secured with fencing to protect from external intrusion through human or through animals.
MUL has reported an increase in the yield of approximately 15,000 gallons per day following its completion.
Mrs. Dorsette Hector aid there is also energy-saving benefits, because Fogarty is a gravity-fed source, therefore increased natural spring production reduces the level of pumping required from the Belham wells, reducing electricity demand and pressure on mechanical equipment.
The Spring at Hope, has also been completed.
The Minister noted that the together, the rehabilitation of Fogarty and Hope reduces the vulnerability of Montserrat’s water system and supports greater use of natural spring production.
She said the rehabilitation is intended to capture and protect the available spring flow, more effectively improve water quality and strengthen the reliability of supply from the important natural sources.
Meanwhile, the island’s water storage and distribution capacity has been increased.
Tanks at Dick Hill, Lawyers, Davy Hill and St. Peter’s total approximately 842,000 gallons.
Mrs. Dorsette Hector explained that the island has moved from having less than approximately one day of stored water supply to around three to five days under the improved system, which represents a significant improvement in Montserrat’s resilience.