Utilization of Karst Water Resources for Potable Water Supply - Risk Potential and Protection

Karst aquifers provide an important basis for the supply of the potable water in many countries of the world. Owing to the hydrogeologic characteristics specific conditions have to be considered in connection with the capture and protection of karst water resources. Due to the fast infiltration and transport processes because of wide opened water paths in the underground results a high vulnerability of these systems, which requires specific protection measures. The necessary risk assessment is carried out by taking in consideration the vulnerability of the geologic sequence as well as of the hazards caused by human activities within the catchment. The safeguard of the system has to be organized by an adapted groundwater management.