Hungarian fish farms partner with water authority to irrigate drought-hit farms and parks

A prolonged drought in Hungary has lowered river flows to record levels, disrupting river traffic and the operation of the Paks nuclear facility. In response, the government unveiled a new plan that emphasizes natural water-storage techniques. Aquaculture farms, in collaboration with the national water authority, are now using the water left in fish ponds after the catch to irrigate agricultural fields and national parks.

Historically, this water was discharged into canals and rivers, but the Inter-Professional Organization for Aquaculture and Fishing (MA-HAL) has started redirecting portions to adjacent wetlands. With growing demand from farmers and park managers, MA-HAL announced intentions to roll out the program across all its ponds. MA-HAL chief Nandor Puskas highlighted the importance of the ponds as a vital water source, while Prime Minister Peter Magyar admitted that water-management projects should have begun earlier and that delays cannot be justified.