The characteristics of groundwater flow in karst aquifers during long lasting low flow conditions, example from SW Slovenia

Abstract

As it is expected that global warming will induce changes in hydrological regimes, the presented study has been conducted to understand howkarst groundwater resources may be affected during long-term dry periods. A multi-tracer test with three injection points aimed at identifying the dynamics of underground drainage through a well-developed system of karst channels and through vadose zone. Results show low apparent dominant flow velocities (through well developed karst conduits between 5.9 and 22.8m/h, through vadose zone 3.6m/h), multiple peaked and extended breakthrough curves. These findings are relevant for groundwater quality monitoring, protection and management, as they infer that contaminant transport in karst, at least in the studied area, may be retarded and long-lasting.