In the heart of Central Anatolia, a critical drinking water source is under scrutiny as researchers work to safeguard its future. The Kesikköprü Dam Lake Basin, which supplies water to Ankara, has been the subject of a groundbreaking study led by Olcay Gülçiçek Uysal from the Faculty of Engineering at Mersin University. The research, published in the journal Global Challenges (translated as “Global Challenges”), offers a comprehensive assessment of groundwater vulnerability, providing a roadmap for sustainable management and land-use planning.
The study employs the DRASTIC model, a widely recognized method for evaluating groundwater vulnerability, within a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) framework. This approach integrates seven key hydrogeological parameters to generate a detailed vulnerability map of the basin. “Most of the basin falls within ‘very low’ and ‘low’ vulnerability zones,” explains Uysal. “However, we observed ‘medium’ vulnerability in localized recharge-prone areas, which are critical for groundwater replenishment.”
The findings are not just about natural conditions; they also highlight the impact of human activities. By evaluating the spatial distribution of agricultural, wastewater, and mining activities relative to vulnerability zones, the study sheds light on potential contamination risks. “While natural conditions suggest a low contamination potential, the cumulative and long-term effects of these activities pose significant risks in certain areas,” Uysal warns.
The study’s validation using nitrate and total organic carbon concentrations adds a layer of reliability to the findings. These indicators represent pollution from agricultural and domestic wastewater sources, and their spatial correlation with the DRASTIC output supports the model’s accuracy. This research is the first of its kind to validate a DRASTIC-based vulnerability map for the Kesikköprü Basin while addressing anthropogenic pressures.
The implications of this research extend beyond the Kesikköprü Dam Lake Basin. It offers a practical decision-making tool for land-use planning and sustainable groundwater management, both regionally and in similar hydrogeological contexts worldwide. For the energy sector, understanding groundwater vulnerability is crucial for managing water resources sustainably, especially in areas where energy production relies heavily on water.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and increasing water demand, studies like this one provide valuable insights for protecting critical water sources. By integrating natural and anthropogenic factors, the research paves the way for more holistic and effective groundwater management strategies. “This study is a step towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of our water resources,” Uysal concludes. “It provides a foundation for future research and practical applications in groundwater protection.”
In an era where water security is paramount, this research offers a beacon of hope and a roadmap for safeguarding one of our most precious resources. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this study will be invaluable in shaping policies and practices that balance development with environmental stewardship.