Quality characteristics and hydrogeochemistry of irrigation waters from three major olive groves in Greece

Abstract

Surface and groundwater samples were collected from three key olive grove regions in Greece in order to assess their overall quality and outline major hydrogeochemical characteristics. The three study areas were selected for their significance to the national olive production as well as for their diverse physiographic characteristics and imposed cultivation practices. Results suggest that quality status in general is acceptable with few exceptions; however, issues related with salinization were identified which in turn could potentially lead to environmental degradation. Hydrogeochemical characteristics are affected by geogenic (natural) factors and anthropogenic influences to some extent. Results were confirmed by PoS index which classified samples according to their quality status. Overall, the controlling factors appear to be the geological setup, the hydrogeological regime, as well as the irrational cultivation practices and groundwater overexploitation. Environmental sustainability in the three examined regions is considered feasible on the grounds of a critical balance between environmental protection and production optimization. This balance may be achieved through the implementation of tailored actions and management measures, designed for each of the three cultivated areas and every plot participating in the study.

Keywords:

• Hydrogeochemistry
• Irrigation water
• Environmental assessment
• Olive groves
• PoS index

Acknowledgments

The study was conducted in the framework of LIFE + Environment project titled “Establishment of Impact Assessment Procedure as a tool for the sustainability of agro-ecosystem: The case of Mediterranean olives, SAGE10”, that is co-financed by the E.C.

Notes

Presented at the 12th International Conference on Protection and Restoration of the Environment (PRE XII) 29 June–3 July 2014, Skiathos Island, Greece