Unlike surface water modeling, large-scale groundwater numerical modeling has rarely been conducted in Italy, leading to a weaker understanding of aquifers compared to river dynamics. As part of MidAS-Po project, Po River District Basin Authority started a scientific collaboration involving academic and institutional experts to analyze and discuss the current knowledge on Po Plain aquifers. The goal is to bridge the gap and initiate a process to enhance awareness of water resources.
Over two years, the first conceptual model was developed under the guidance of six scientific groups, focusing on 3D reconstruction and parametrization, boundary condition, withdrawals, aquifer recharge, calibration boreholes, and modeling coordination.
The first groundwater numerical model of the Po Plain is currently underway. To summarize with a few key figures, it includes: 12 model layers, over 30,000 active grid cells per layer, more than 4,000 km of river network, over 150,000 well points, more than 1,000 calibration boreholes, and nearly 60,000 head measurements, spanning 148 monthly stress periods. Recharge has been estimated using a soil water balance model that takes into account meteorological data, land use, pedology and irrigation practices.
Although the project is still ongoing, some preliminary findings can already be drawn. Despite the vast amount of collected data, much more remains to be obtained. Stakeholder involvement is crucial in a region spanning four different local government institutions, approximately 60 water companies, and 60 irrigation districts. Therefore, future project development must include strategies to collect missing data and ensure its effective management for future applications. Once refined, the model will serve as a tool to understand groundwater dynamics, monitor the system, and design new measures for water protection.
Acknowledgment
MidAS-Po-Modello idrogeologico delle Acque Sotterranee del distretto idrografico del fiume Po-FSC 2014-2020