Ground water in the Po basin: some problems relating to its use and protection

The Po Plain consists of quaternary deposits of the main river and its tributaries. The regional aquifer is mainly a monostratum system despite being subdivided into several layers in places. Due to its hydrogeological setting the high plain, i.e. the area where the best quality groundwater occurs, is highly vulnerable to pollutants and to the high density of hazardous sources. The main problems with respect to the anthropogenic pollution of groundwater are related to halogenic compounds, nitrates and herbicides. Such a combination requires careful management of the water supply, namely the location of new pumping centres, the protection of existing sources and the final use of water resources of different quality.