Minister for Gozo, Clint Camilleri has visited the Mgarr ix-Xini Valley where rehabilitation works were carried out over the summer.
He explained that the project spanned a distance of approximately one kilometre, from Triq tal-Gruwa to the existing dam, and was aimed at ”enhancing the valley’s capacity to manage rainwater, while helping to reduce flood risks and conserve biodiversity.”
The Minister said that, “Gozo’s valleys are an important part of our island’s natural heritage and ecosystem. With the completion of works in the Mgarr ix-Xini valley, we are further strengthening the valley’s capacity to collect and channel rainwater, while prioritising the protection of soil, indigenous vegetation, and biodiversity. This intervention helps to reduce risks associated with water accumulation and better safeguard the natural environment and landscapes.”
The works included clearing vegetation from an area of ??approximately 11,700 square metres, as well as the removal of about 24,500 cubic metres of sediment and material that had accumulated in the valley. ”This effort helped to reopen sections of the valley that had become filled over time, thereby improving its capacity to receive and channel rainwater,” the Gozo Minister said.
The Minister stated that ”particular attention was given to controlling invasive species – especially reeds – which spread rapidly, obstruct water flow, and compete with indigenous vegetation. Its removal helps create better conditions for the regeneration of the natural habitat, while safeguarding protected trees and species. Soil conservation and the regeneration of natural vegetation are an integral part of the valley’s rehabilitation.”
Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by stating that ”the completion of this project contributes to better rainwater management and a reduction in flood risk, while enhancing the ecological and landscape value of Wied ta’ Mgarr ix-Xini.”
Photo: DOI