Hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry of the plain between Mt. Massico and the River Volturno (Campania Regione, Italy)

Abstract

Our study covered the sector of the Campanian Plain between the River Volturno and Mt. Massico. The hydrogeological system was defined in detail by analysing data from over 400 borehole stratigraphies and more than 100 piezometric surveys. The plain’s main aquifer was identified in the pyroclastic/sedimentary material underlying rather impermeable Campanian Ignimbrite, occurring with variable thicknesses. Piezometric and hydrochemical data allowed us to identify the areas, at the edge of the plain, where there are significant quantities of groundwater. Chemical data also showed the groundwater sectors contaminated by salt water intrusion (chloride) or nitrates and, along the Volturno river, a vast area characterized by reducing environments. Finally, the Aquifer Contamination Vulnerability Map stressed the importance of the depth to water and the vadose zone in the unconfined sectors.