INTEGRATED SURFACE WATER AND GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT IN THE ALGARVE (SOUTHERN PORTUGAL) THE ROLE OF NUMERICAL MODELLING IN REGIONAL WATER RESOURCES PLANNING

J. PAULO MONTEIRO, S. COSTA MANUEL

Abstract


The Algarve region, in southern Portugal, is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with pronounced seasonal and interannual variability, where increasing water demand, recurrent droughts, and climate change have intensified pressure on both surface water and groundwater resources. Sustainable management of these resources requires an integrated approach that recognizes the strong hydraulic interactions between reservoirs, river systems, and aquifer systems. This paper presents the Algarve as a representative case study of conjunctive surface water and groundwater management supported by regional numerical modelling. The study reviews the development of a regional groundwater flow model designed as a decision-support tool for water resources planning, enabling the evaluation of groundwater abstraction, reservoir operation, artificial recharge, and the impacts of different management scenarios. Particular attention is given to the contribution of numerical modelling in improving water allocation, protecting coastal aquifers against seawater intrusion, assessing groundwater recharge, and enhancing the resilience of water supply systems under prolonged drought conditions. The paper also discusses the evolution of integrated water resources management over the past two decades, highlighting recent advances in hydrogeological modelling, geographic information systems, remote sensing, climate impact assessment, and decision-support methodologies. The Algarve experience demonstrates that regional numerical models provide an effective scientific framework for optimizing conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater while supporting adaptive management strategies in Mediterranean regions facing increasing water scarcity. The lessons derived from this study are applicable to many semi-arid coastal regions worldwide where sustainable water management has become a major environmental and socio-economic challenge.


Keywords


Integrated water resources management; Surface water; Groundwater; Numerical modelling; Conjunctive use; Climate change; Coastal aquifers; Seawater intrusion; Decision support systems; Algarve; Portugal.

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