Carbonate aquifers in Apulia and seawater intrusion

Abstract

The predisposing factors and the determining factors of seawater intrusion in wide carbonate aquifers of Apulia ( Southern Italy) are characterized. Main predisposing factors prove the sedimentation environment, the tectonic-karstic evolution, the geometry of the aquifers in relation to the coastline, the depth of the aquifers, the existence of underground outflows and their chemical nature. The effect of salinity pollution and its trend was characterized using data from a regional monitoring network, considering logs time series, and also from well loggings. The intensive and widespread use has led to a progressive deterioration in water quality, particularly in the Salento area, right where the aquifer is most susceptible to seawater intrusion.