August Project Status Update: Community Ownership & Strengthening Operations
As summer winds down, Vera Aqua Vera Vita continues to move full steam ahead with our water projects in both Las Mercedes KM11 and La Merced. This past month marked exciting moments of community decision-making, critical permitting progress, and deeper collaboration on the ground. With every step forward, we come closer to delivering long-term, sustainable clean water solutions to both communities. Here’s what we accomplished in August:
La Merced: Laying the Groundwork for the Well
In early August, the community of La Merced officially selected the location where they wish to drill their groundwater well—a major moment in local ownership and direction. With support from VAVV and our engineering partners, it was determined that the well, along with a reservoir and distribution kiosk, will occupy a total of 10 square meters, with an impact zone of about 25 square meters during construction.
As we moved through mid-August, our team initiated formal requests for land ownership verification from SUNARP (Public Records Office) and PECH (the irrigation and land management authority). SUNARP advised us to pursue a right of easement through PECH, which VAVV officially submitted. By the end of the month, we had fulfilled PECH’s request for additional documentation, including our organizational registration, power of attorney, and technical location details.
Looking ahead, we aim to confirm full ownership and secure the easement rights in early September. We will also be hiring a hydrogeological consultant to conduct a geo-electrical study to validate the ideal drilling point, with formal engineering planning expected to begin by the end of next month.
Las Mercedes KM11: Strengthening Operations and Unlocking Next Steps
Throughout August, the clean water tanker truck continued its mission, delivering water to roughly 30% of the Las Mercedes KM11 community at a very low temporary rate. While this effort meets urgent needs, we remain focused on establishing a permanent, sustainable solution for clean water access.
In the second and third weeks of the month, our team met with officials from the Municipality of Piura to secure a critical easement for building the community’s reservoir. As a key requirement to move forward, we added an amendment to our agreement stating the community’s commitment to form a JASS (a registered water and sanitation services board), as requested by the Municipality.
Meanwhile, VAVV located historical community maps showing that the area designated for the reservoir has always been earmarked for public service use—an important step in validating our plans. On the operations side, our Water Committee began holding weekly meetings with VAVV staff to improve management, maintenance, and financial oversight of the clean water system. In late August, the committee also successfully obtained truck-use permits from DIGESA, a vital step for compliance and regulation.
In September, we anticipate final approval of the easement by the Municipality of Piura, followed by the long-awaited signing of the Funding Plan Agreement. We also plan to optimize truck operations, finalize a sustainable water rate, and install a GPS and alarm system for the vehicle. Finally, construction planning will begin for the Ground Storage Tank and Distribution Kiosk, with a contractor kickoff meeting expected by month’s end.
Looking Ahead
Our capital campaign continues as we work to fund the final phases of both projects. We’re incredibly close to full implementation in Las Mercedes KM11 and advancing steadily in La Merced. Your continued support helps us bring clean water—and dignity—to these communities. If you haven’t yet contributed, now is the time. Help us finish strong by donating to our Capital Campaign today and be part of the solution.
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