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Real-Time Aquifer Monitoring and Information System for Integrated Water Resources Management – Phase II (Completed)
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The project strengthened technological systems for integrated water resource management in Costa Rica through the modernization of the SINIGIRH and SIMASTIR platforms. The initiative expanded information processing and storage capacity, improved applications, and digitalized records to facilitate the management and consultation of water-related data.
In addition, the national aquifer monitoring network was expanded with new wells equipped with real-time measurement technology, strengthening the generation of reliable information on water availability, droughts, and aquifer vulnerability. The project contributes to improved decision-making, greater transparency, and more efficient and sustainable water resource management in the country.
UNOPS' ROLE
UNOPS provided technical assistance and project management support, accompanying the development and implementation of technological solutions and water monitoring systems.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was responsible for administration and procurement processes required for the execution of the project.
SDGs TO WHICH IT CONTRIBUTES
PROJECT BENEFITS
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Improved quality of life for the general population through access to reliable and timely information on water availability for basic needs and economic development.
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Expansion of the aquifer information database through the gradual growth of the national monitoring network, covering the most vulnerable sectors in terms of water supply, particularly communities affected by droughts.
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Partnerships with additional institutions (beyond SENARA and AyA integrated during Phase I), strengthening the SINIGIRH digital water resources information platform.
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Generation of knowledge to support decision-making at both local and national government levels.
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Modernization of the Water Directorate’s management systems, improving services for institutional and public users, as well as internal processes, thereby strengthening integrated water resource management as the governing authority. This also included training processes to enhance the professional and technical capacities of institutional staff.
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Development of knowledge and integration of information into a comprehensive open-access digital platform for water management in Costa Rica, allowing the country to advance in meeting international reporting requirements related to water statistics that support global reports.
RESULTS OF THE FIRST PHASE
RESOURCES
(INPUTS)
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Expansion of the real-time aquifer monitoring network with 15 additional wells in the regions of Guanacaste, the Central Valley, and the Central Pacific.
Interconnection of additional institutions into the digital platform, including SINIA and ESPH.
Strengthening of digital processes within the Water Directorate.
Dissemination and promotion of SINIGIRH and SIMASTIR products.
ACTIVITIES
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Drilling and equipping additional wells in prioritized areas, including staff training in data management software and reinforcement of the Water Directorate’s data management center.
Integration of additional institutions beyond SENARA and AyA, already included in Phase I. This also includes the incorporation of updated digital data from the Water Directorate’s databases and the strengthening of the digital platform through software and database improvements, equipment acquisition, institutional interconnection, training, digitalization of physical records, expansion of the geospatial viewer, and other enhancements.
PRODUCTS
(OUTPUTS)
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Increased number of aquifers monitored in real time to obtain accurate data.
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Access to national water information generated by different institutions.
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Improved management capacity of the Water Directorate and participating institutions.
EFFECTS
(OUTCOMES)
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Updated water resources database.
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Consolidation of data from different water resources into a single national digital platform (rivers, aquifers, rainfall, etc.).
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Faster reporting processes, reduced need for in-person public assistance, and more efficient access to information for both public institutions and private users.
IMPACTS
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Improved national decision-making for the protection and sustainable use of aquifers, contributing to better quality of life for communities.
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Reduction of duplicated actions at the institutional level.
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More efficient use of government financial resources.
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Greater transparency and accountability, while improving quality of life through more effective and efficient water resource management processes.
