Desalination Plant Shutdown Threatens Israeli Agriculture and Food Supply

A severe water shortage is impacting Israeli agricultural farms, particularly in the southern region, due to the shutdown of most desalination plants. The plants were idled following an unusual increase in seawater turbidity. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security warned on Tuesday that if water supply is not quickly restored, irreparable damage could be inflicted on crops and Israel's food production continuity, especially with the High Holidays approaching.

Following an assessment by Ministry Director General Oren Lavi, critical water shortage areas were identified. Ramat Negev and the Nitzana corridor are experiencing the most severe distress, with water supply to agriculture halted. These areas contain extensive vegetable fields, greenhouses, and young seedlings, many of which require continuous irrigation. Farmers lack alternative water sources, and prolonged interruption could destroy crops and disrupt regular production.

"We are in an unusual event that requires swift action," Lavi stated. "For farmers, water is not a resource that can be postponed. In certain crops, especially young seedlings, greenhouses, and sensitive crops, a prolonged irrigation halt can cause irreversible damage very quickly." The ministry is working with the Water Authority and Mekorot to prioritize farms facing immediate threats to crops or livestock.

Lavi further cautioned that extended desalination plant shutdowns and water shortages could affect the continuity of fresh agricultural produce supply for the upcoming High Holidays. "Our goal now is clear: to prevent irreversible damage to farmers and maintain agricultural production continuity and Israel's food security," he added.

Disruptions are not limited to the south, with issues reported in Nitzana, Ashkelon Coast, and Sdot Negev regional councils. Water shortages were also reported in the Shfela and Har regions, in Gazer, Benjamin, and East Lachish regional councils. Efforts are underway to supply water to affected livestock farms, with water tankers dispatched to kibbutz Gzer and moshav Matzliach. However, the ministry stressed that tankers are a temporary emergency solution, insufficient for large-scale cultivation or regular supply.

The Water Authority instructed authorities to reduce public gardening and agricultural water use to ensure continued supply to residences. The Ministry of Agriculture continues to monitor the situation and seek localized solutions, prioritizing farms where any further delay without water could lead to crop loss and harm to livestock.