Rapti-Caputo, D. (2007): Palaeo-channels and groundwater vulnerability: some considerations.

In order to define the role played by both superficial and buried palaeo-channels within the alluvial plain of the River Po, Northern Italy, aimed to determine the intrinsic vulnerability of the aquifer systems, geomorphological, lithological, hydrogeological and geochemical data have been analysed. In particular, the relationships of these sedimentary bodies with the intrinsic vulnerability and the diffusion of polluting substances in the underground water resources have been investigated. In the eastern sector of the Po Plain and especially in the broader area surrounding Ferrara, the dominant geomorphological features are the numerous palaeo-channels. Along the natural levees of these abandoned river courses several archaeological and ancient sites were established. The space distribution of these prevailingly sandy bodies strongly influences the hydrodynamic behaviour of the aquifers as, for example, the geometrical characteristics of the superficial unconfined hydrogeological units. Indeed, along the axis of these geomorphological features the intrinsic vulnerability has been estimated to be high to extremely high (70-90%). In fact, in this superficial aquifer, important concentrations of chlorides have been detected and especially the sulphates and nitrates exceed the drinkableness limits, therefore indicating the qualitative decay of this resource mainly due to farming activities. The occurrence of sandy bodies also influences the vulnerability of the underlying confined aquifer that represents the main source exploited for the waterworks of the surrounding territory. When the axis of the principal palaeo-channels coincides with the present-day hydrographic network, as in the case of the Po di Volano, a hydraulic barrier with constant pressure is generated. As a consequence, the continuous mixing phenomena occurring between superficial and underground waters can either improve or worsen the quality of the water resources. Moreover, in this complex system, the determination of the intrinsic vulnerability of the aquifer bodies is one of the fondamental parameters to be determined before any strategic decision is taken for the integrated managment and protection of the underground resources and the environment.