An innovative irrigation with treated effluents project transformed the Las Grutas treatment plant in Río Negro into a nursery that produces forest species to green public spaces.
The initiative turns wastewater into plant life for San Antonio Oeste, Las Grutas, and Puerto de San Antonio Este.
The model emerged from an alliance between the INTA, the Provincial Water Department (DPA), the Municipality of San Antonio Oeste, and Aguas Rionegrinas (ARSA).
This project is key because it aims to reforest the province with species adapted to the arid Patagonian environment.
To achieve this, the project reuses treated sewage effluents for irrigation and the production of plants intended to beautify urban areas.
From Pilot Test to Replicable Model
“It all began as a pilot test with salicaceae —poplars and willows— to identify which clones adapted best to soils with severe fertility limitations,” says Mariana Dacal Arriaga, INTA Conesa extensionist.
However, today the irrigation with treated effluents project is already in its third year, “with very encouraging results”.
The system focuses on a cutting bed, a space where plants are reproduced from cuttings through irrigation with effluents.
This technique produces specimens that, after a year of growth, are suitable for urban reforestation.
During the last year, the project also added the production of ornamental species such as ash trees and aguaribay.
“These plants are germinated in a private greenhouse and watered with treated wastewater, rich in nutrients, to promote their development before being transplanted into public spaces,” explained the extensionist.
Irrigation with Treated Effluents, a Response to the Lack of Urban Greenery
The choice of these tree species responds to a clear need: improving urban tree cover.
“Visitors to our towns quickly notice the lack of greenery. Although progress has been made compared to previous decades, much remains to be done in terms of reforestation and shade,” notes Dacal Arriaga in this regard.
Therefore, the project’s features include:
- Production of poplars and willows through cutting technique
- Cultivation of ornamental species in a private greenhouse
- Irrigation with nutrient-rich treated effluents
- Plants suitable for transplant after one year
- Lower water requirement once the trees are established
The project also established a strategic link with the agricultural sector through collaboration with the Rural Society.
As an example of this, some specimens are tested in livestock fields, where the plants are used as shelters and shade areas for the cattle.
For the next year, the multiplication of new species adapted to dryland conditions is projected.
An Exportable Model to Other Regions
“It is perfectly feasible to apply this experience in other localities that have effluent treatment plants and irrigation,” the specialist enthuses.
And she adds: “The important thing is to adapt the system to the type of soil and local climate, and to have committed actors.”
One of the achievements of the irrigation with effluents project was the reforestation of a square in Las Grutas, carried out a year ago.
“A site with particularly adverse conditions for plant growth was chosen, and today the plants thrive. It is concrete proof that this model works,” affirmed the scientist.
Thus, this initiative not only greens public spaces but also offers a concrete and replicable alternative for the efficient use of water resources in a context of growing concern about water scarcity.
“We believe we are facing a sustainable development model that combines science, institutional commitment, and community participation. All this translates into more trees, more shade, more life,” concluded Dacal Arriaga.
