Abstract:
This paper presents the preliminary results of the experimental work developed in Portugal in the framework of
the 6th Framework Programme GABARDINE Project, Groundwater artificial recharge based on alternative
sources of water: Advanced integrated technologies and management, as well as in the framework of a PhD
Thesis under development at LNEC. The case study area is located in the Southern Portuguese Algarve region,
more precisely in Campina de Faro, near the city of Faro. The case study area is approximately 9 km2 large,
being located in a section of the aquifer system of Campina de Faro. This aquifer system was declared as a
vulnerable zone concerning the EU nitrates Directive. So, the aquifer needs groundwater rehabilitation, to fulfil
the Water Framework Directive goals. The artificial recharge experiments intend to facilitate the
accomplishment of those goals. Therefore, one of the main objectives of the research is the optimisation of
groundwater rehabilitation based on artificial recharge aiming the minimization of diffuse pollution effects
caused by typical local agricultural practices.
