The future Montesa-Vallada dam, designed to enhance flood protection while maintaining the natural flow of the Cànyoles River, has been presented to the affected municipalities. The objective is to balance hydraulic function with the conservation of the river's ecological corridor.
Project director Emilio Carrilero highlighted that the design incorporates environmental considerations from the initial stages, creating an infrastructure that preserves the river's ecological continuity. CHJ president Miguel Polo announced that the construction project will soon undergo public information procedures, allowing for citizen participation.
The dam, originating from the 1982 floods, is a priority infrastructure included in current flood risk management and hydrological plans. It will consist of a concrete flood control dam, of an arch-gravity type, approximately 56 meters high, designed to temporarily retain water during heavy rainfall episodes.
Unlike other dams, this one will not have permanent storage or regulation functions, serving exclusively for floodwater management. Under normal conditions, the river's natural flow will be maintained, and the reservoir will only store water during floods, reaching a maximum capacity of nearly 35 cubic hectometers.
One of the most innovative elements is the multifunctional ecological underpass, which will remain open during the river's normal operation. This passage will allow for longitudinal continuity of the riverbed, the movement of aquatic and terrestrial fauna, and natural sediment transport. It will have a cross-section of 4.5 by 4.5 meters and a length of approximately 30 meters.
The interior of the underpass will include a low-flow channel to ensure adequate depths for fish and species like otters. The external platforms will facilitate fauna guidance and improve the overall functional efficiency. The project also includes environmental restoration work in the reservoir area, such as removing invasive species, improving the riverbed, and reforestation with native species.
