Fog Catchers for Irrigation

Large mesh nets, known as fog catchers, trap tiny water droplets from passing fog. These droplets drip into a collection trough and are stored in tanks for distribution.

Fog Catchers for Irrigation

In the dry hills of Manchay, Peru, where rainfall is rare and clean water is scarce, our Fog Catching Initiative is turning an environmental challenge into a life-changing solution. This innovative project uses large mesh nets—called fog catchers—to capture microscopic water droplets from the passing fog. These droplets collect into troughs and are stored in tanks for household use and irrigation. With the support of generous donors and partners, we have successfully installed the first fog catchers and launched a one-year pilot program led by a local engineer.

The initiative serves a region where 40% of the population lives in poverty and 11% in extreme poverty. By providing a sustainable water source, this system reduces reliance on expensive and inconsistent water delivery services and empowers communities to manage and maintain the fog catchers. The pilot project aims to install 10 fog catchers across the valley, supplying clean water for drinking and daily use and supporting gardening efforts at higher elevations. With your continued support, we're transforming fog into a source of hope, health, and self-sufficiency for the people of Manchay.