MANAGED AQUIFER RECHARGE AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

P. Jokela1 and J. Valtonen2
1Tavase Ltd., Viinikankatu 42, FIN33800,
Tampere, FINLAND
email:
petri.jokela@tampere.fi
2Turku Region Water Ltd., Maariankatu 1, FIN20100
Turku, FINLAND

The order of magnitude of large water supply projects is not only a condition of public participation (PP), but it also provokes PP in modern societies where people are aware of possible impacts and changes in their living environment. The objective is to present the influence of PP on planning and realization of largescale managed aquifer recharge (MAR) for potable water treatment. Numerous examples and solutions are presented using two MAR projects as case studies.

Tavase Ltd. aims to construct a MAR plant (capacity 70 000 m3/d) to provide potable water for the city of Tampere region. The environmental impact assessment (EIA) was completed in 2003. Additional infiltration studies are being conducted on site. Turku Region Water Ltd. constructed a MAR plant (capacity 105 000 m3/d) to provide potable water for the city of Turku region. The EIA was completed in 2001. Fullscale trials are being conducted, and the
startup of the water supply will take place in 2011.

People have different ways for PP: some utilize political decision making systems, some activate when feeling threatened (‘not in my backyard’), etc. If PP aims at opposing the project, one target is to buildup critical opinions, which are repeatedly presented to the decision makers and the public. This can be supported by articles and letters to media, arranging seminars, writing claims, passive resistance, networking and internetconnections. Delaying the project is one element; realized, e.g., by appealing to higher courts during permit processes and by vandalism.

PP related to the EIA is a tool in gathering and distributing data. It is not a means to prevent criticism. The public, including activist groups, demand continuing participation. From the management pointofview following aspects on PP should be considered: (1) PP is a part of the project, not to be neglected, (2) PP sharpens the activity of the management, (3) the project gains knowledge due to fulfilled claims from PP, (4) the project may be delayed by years – this should be taken into account when making schedules, and (5) it is essential to put emphasis on continuing communication with all stakeholders, including the shareholders.