Groundwater recharge distribution due to snow cover in shortage conditions (2019–22) on the Gran Sasso carbonate aquifer (Central Italy)

Abstract

Aquifer recharge by the snowpack is relevant to be assessed to evaluate groundwater availability in mountainous karst regions. The recharge due to snowpack in the Gran Sasso aquifer has previously been estimated through an empirical approach using elevation gradients. To validate and quantify the coverage and persistence of the snowpack over time through an objective method, satellite images have been analysed. The Campo Imperatore plain, the endorheic basin acting as a preferential recharge area of the aquifer, plays an important role, both for the snow cover and also for the infiltration and recharge of springs. The identification of recharge areas has been validated by the stable isotope approach with the assessment of computed isotope recharge elevation based on the values and oscillations of the δ18O isotope recorded at the springs. The main findings confirm the high infiltration rate of Campo Imperatore plain and its direct influence on snow contribution to aquifer recharge. The extension of snow coverage out of this plain has a minor influence to recharge, highlighting that the main drivers for infiltration rate are fractured networks and karstic forms more than snow coverage on carbonate outcrops.

Tracking flowpaths in a complex karst system through tracer test and hydrogeochemical monitoring: Implications for groundwater protection (Gran Sasso, Italy)

“…The springs show stable values of δ 18 O (average: 10.5‰) and are characterised by a CIRE between 1600 m asl and 1800 m asl, which can be correlated with the altitudes of the Campo Imperatore endorheic basin. Therefore, it can be assumed that the Campo Imperatore basin contributes significantly to the recharge of both springs [ 80 ]. Besides, CIRE values of the Vitella d’Oro spring are on average lower than those of the Mortaio d’Angri spring, and values match only in a few cases/periods ( Fig.…”

“…The isotope analyses have been performed at IT2E Isotope Tracer Technologies Europe Srl in Milan (Italy). The analytical precision is about ±0.1‰ for δ 18 O and ±1‰ for δD [ 79 , 80 ]. Measurements of stable isotopes of water (δ 18 O and δD) are expressed in terms of delta units per mil (δ‰).…”

Structural Classification, Discharge Statistics, and Recession Analysis from the Springs of the Gran Sasso (Italy) Carbonate Aquifer; Comparison with Selected Analogues Worldwide

“…Saturation indexes show positive and negative values for calcite and dolomite, respectively. Oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, and radon isotopes were also studied over the years to unravel the areas and dynamics of aquifer recharge [35,36,50]. Overall, the fractured dolostones and limestones of the Gran Sasso and Laga Mountains National Park host huge and high-quality groundwater resources according to [50,52].…”

“…The high infiltration rates were found at the Campo Imperatore plain due to the direct input of snow to the aquifer recharge. Groundwater stable isotopes were used to assess the influence of snowpack on the recharge dynamics of some carbonate massifs of Central Italy, including the Gran Sasso [35,36]. By contrast, the proposed research offers a focus on the discharge points of the selected carbonate aquifer system.…”

Geophysical and Geochemical Pilot Study to Characterize the Dam Foundation Rock and Source of Seepage in Part of Pensacola Dam in Oklahoma

“…This analysis relies on the analysis of the chemical composition and concentration of numerous elements and compounds. Analyzing these data can provide valuable information on the source of seeps, as well as any changes over time [39][40][41][42][43] which could help in understanding the fate of seepage, and thus making it possible to implement more effective management practices.…”