Evaluating the impact of the national flood relief project (NFRP) on farmers' groundwater sources in Marsascala

Abstract

My study assesses the impact of Malta’s National Flood Relief Project (NFRP) on groundwater availability and quality in the Żabbar-Marsascala catchment. I adopt a mixed-methods approach that combines groundwater sampling with semi-structured interviews of ten farmers. pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, nitrate and phosphate levels are measured in the catchment. Results indicate elevated nitrate concentrations (up to 739.6 mg/L) and high salinity in boreholes near NFRP infrastructure. This raises concerns about reduced groundwater recharge during stormwater events which water is immediately diverted to the sea. Farmer testimonies confirmed the increased salinity; groundwater decline and greater reliance on bowsers and rainwater harvesting. While the NFRP has succeeded in reducing flood risk and improving road access, its design has unintentionally limited groundwater replenishment. I recommend to better integrate small-scale recharge features and to more frequently involve local farmers in future infrastructure planning. This will align flood mitigation and sustainable water resource management.