Assessing Sustainable Development of Deep Aquifers

Abstract Deep groundwater aquifers are exploited for a variety of purposes. In general, impermeable rock layers protect these from anthropogenic influences. As such, they last resort in pre-industrial state, and crucial resource cases emergency, such as floods contaminating shallow groundwater. The EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) provides the regulatory framework to its quality quantity. Recent monitoring hydrochemical state Upper Jurassic wells Bavaria Austria has shown fluctuations that were connected new exploitation activities might indicate an unsustainable development aquifer. We propose workflow accordance with WFD which uses clustering algorithms assess fluctuations. Our data consists 5 42 analyses per well yearly sampling intervals spanning up 30 years. From cluster analysis we derived thresholds two corridors: Natural Range Corridor (NC) Action (AC). While NC represents well-specific natural variation range, AC hints towards should trigger detailed (re)assessment. To show potential method, was applied different geological characteristics. Distinct fluctuation events clearly recognized can be used context early warning system, malign variations detected before become legally problematic operators. thus novel, robust, reproducible method grade sustainability at is ensures good status unique important resource.