Nature-based Solutions on existing
infrastructures for resilient Water
Management in the Mediterranean
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FWC-NbS 4: Complesso di acquiferi (Type B+C)
Località: Bozcaada, Turchia
Clima: Clima mediterraneo caldo-estivo
Area: 37.6 Ha
Obiettivo: Migliorare lo stoccaggio delle acque sotterranee negli acquiferi e l’efficienza del sistema di distribuzione.
Sfide: Impatti dei cambiamenti climatici; qualità dell’acqua; squilibrio nella domanda d’acqua dovuto al turismo; siccità e scarsità d’acqua; salinità; erosione; uso dell’acqua per l’irrigazione; fertilità del suolo – perdite di resa.
Descrizione: Tenedos è un’isola nel Mar Egeo settentrionale di grande importanza geografica e geopolitica. Non ci sono fiumi principali o una vegetazione ricca e il numero limitato di piante acquatiche e palustri è una conseguenza della scarsità d’acqua. L’acqua potabile è fornita tramite una condotta dal continente e una piccola quantità viene utilizzata per l’agricoltura. Misure tradizionali di risparmio idrico sono utilizzate per l’irrigazione agricola. I pozzi vengono anche utilizzati per estrarre acqua sotterranea per l’irrigazione, ma non è una pratica molto comune a causa dell’intrusione di acqua di mare nell’acquifero. Grandi differenze nel numbero della popolazione invernale ed estiva causano un grosso stress delle risorse idriche. Sono stati promossi investimenti per migliorare l’infrastruttura.
To implement soil natural infiltration techniques, the dominant recharge mechanism is determined to develop a suitable approach to infiltrate additional water (roof water, treated wastewater, extreme runoff from the natural drainage system, etc.) to the aquifer.
A pilot-scale recharge unit will be constructed: Gradoni terracing techniques will be implemented by creating step-like structures on sloped terrains; cultivate groundcover plants will be introduced; and measures to increase soil’s water retention capacity will be applied.
Recharge wells will be installed at sites with saltwater intrusion sites on the island. To implement recharge wells, a modflow-seawat model on Groundwater Modelling System (GMS) platform will be developed: a conceptual model, numerical salt water intrusion model and a scenario analysis. Also, it will be analysed the existing wells and new monitoring wells will be drilled. Groundwater levels, groundwater quality and calibration data will be monitored.
CA techniques will be applied, focus on the development of a permanent soil cover, minimum soil disturbance, and diversification of plant species. In the Case Study area, carefully selected fertilizers will be used to support soil health and minimize environmental impacts; water management practices will be implemented to conserve and optimally use water resources; and various plant species will be introduced and the development of beneficial microorganisms in the soil will be encouraged.
The landscape of the implementation area is predominantly covered with fig trees, specifically in their early growth stages of 3-4 years. These young fig trees, while resilient, require specific care and attention to ensure their healthy growth and productivity. The sloped nature of the terrain can lead to issues such as soil erosion, water runoff, and uneven water distribution. Implementing CA and effective soil management practices in this setting is crucial to address these challenges, promote sustainable agriculture, and ensure the long-term health and productivity of the fig orchard.
Climate-resilient agriculture will be applied in an agriculture area of Case Study 4, using treated wastewater and greywater for irrigation in Paulownia cultivation. A symbiotic relation is created, promoting a closed-loop system and fostering the conservation of water resources and minimizing waste. As Paulownia thrives, it helps in restoring soil health and enhancing biodiversity, which in turn can mitigate the adverse impacts of climate fluctuations, setting a cornerstone for an ecologically balanced future.
The data collected by the Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system is used to generate reports and analysis to assist in decision making, predictive maintenance and process optimisation of Bozcaada’s existing water distribution system.
A smart irrigation system is designed to monitor the moisture of soil and determine the precise amount of irrigation water and plant water consumption using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The system can monitor capillarity water in soil with real-time data and automatically manage the irrigation system with artificial intelligence. Thus, an AI irrigation system using ICT on a pilot scale will be constructed. AI algorithms will be used to analyze soil moisture data and capillary water movements in the soil profile (root zone), and analyzing them in real-time for maintaining optimal root zone moisture levels. Also, and irrigation and nutrient management will be developed supported by AI algorithms.
As a result of the application, the amount and movement of water in the soil will be accurately determined, allowing for more reliable water budget calculations.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s PRIMA Research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No 2221.