Foupana dam study proposes 491-hectare reservoir in Algarve

The environmental impact study for the Foupana dam, planned for the Alcoutim and Castro Marim municipalities, is open for public consultation until 12 October. The recommended option foresees a 491-hectare reservoir holding 99 cubic hectometres of water, aimed at boosting water availability in the Algarve, including for farming. The study acknowledges significant negative impacts on biodiversity and water resources, particularly affecting the Foupana stream's flow and habitats, and flags a road-crossing risk to the Iberian lynx. Investment was previously estimated at €150-200 million. The project needs a favourable environmental approval before licensing can proceed.