wAbstract
@The aim of this study is to apply an integrated approach to determine
nitrate sources and fate in the alluvial aquifer of the River
Vibrata (Abruzzi, central Italy) by coupling the Isotope and the
Component approaches. Collected data include concentration and
nitrogen isotope composition of groundwater samples from the alluvial
aquifer and nitrogen loads arising from agricultural and non-agricultural
sources. The adopted methodology identified synthetic fertilizers
as main sources of nitrate in the Vibrata alluvial aquifer. At
the catchment scale, two different zones have been identified:
the Upper Valley, where infiltration to groundwater is dominant
and nitrogen easily migrates into the aquifer; in this area, nitrate
content in groundwater is stable and normally higher than EU requirements.
Moreover, streamwaters are fed by groundwater with a nitrate content
likely lowered by denitrification processes occurring in the hyporheic
zone. In the Lower Valley, runoff processes dominate and the nitrate
content in surface waters is higher. Nevertheless, groundwater
is locally affected by denitrification that breaks down the nitrate
content, which often reaches values consistent with law limits.
Keywords: Pollution; Alluvial aquifer; Nitrogen loads; Isotopes;
European policyx
Introduction
Study site
Methods
@Isotope analysis
@Components approach
Results
@Hydrochemical analyses
@Components approach
@Isotope approach
Discussion
Conclusions and management strategy
Acknowledgments
References