POVADA – Data Analysis of Groundwater Resources

The sufficiency and sustainable use of groundwater reserves are key factors in terms of security of supply. Clean and sufficient water is vital for both the well-being of the population and economic activity. As a result of climate change, groundwater formation volumes are subject to increasing fluctuations. Measured monitoring data, analyses and modelling are needed on the effects of climate change on both the quantity and quality of groundwater.

The source material for the project’s models is data collected by the Finnish Environment Institute and the Finnish Meteorological Institute from Lapland, North Ostrobothnia and Kainuu. In addition, measurement data from GTK’s HYGLO WOLL (Water Oriented Living Labs, Water4All) stations will be utilised. The climate models created in the project will also serve as data sources for groundwater formation modelling.

The project’s measures are aimed at private and public water services in Lapland, Kainuu and North Ostrobothnia.

Partners: The project is carried out as a group project between the GTK, Mity and LUT.

Funding authority: North Ostrobothnia Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment

Goals

The aim of the POVADA project is to improve the management of groundwater resources with the help of data, by utilising groundwater location data, such as monitoring data on groundwater levels and movement and infiltration rate, combined with weather observations. Forecast models based on monitoring data are used to estimate changes in groundwater resources in future climate conditions. The model to be created can be used to improve security of supply and overall security.

In addition, a groundwater flow measurement method will be developed to improve understanding of the effects of water abstraction and climate change on groundwater bodies.