Utilisation and Protection of Fresh, Mineral and Geothermal Waters in the Urban Area of Horna Nitra, Slovakia

Abstract

In Slovakia, fresh, mineral and geothermal groundwaters are regarded as part of the natural heritage and important economic, therapeutic and economic assets. Hydrogeological studies including numerical modeling demonstrate that the quality and quantity of the geothermal waters can be protected from anthropogenic impacts by careful management. Greatest threats come from water abstraction and from urban and industrial sources of contamination, including coal mines. Protection measures introduced by the government have fulfilled their function. They include strict protocols for the construction, maintenance and operation of health resorts and establishment of protection zones for recharge, flow and discharge areas.