Methods of Assessing Impacts of Urbanisation on Groundwater Quality — Lithuanian Experience

Impacts of urbanisation on groundwater resources are a global problem arising from the fact that many towns and cities are located in areas where aquifers are used for potable water supply. Water table aquifers are particularly vulnerable to pollution but in Lithuania, are still occasionally used for drinking water. In general, deeper aquifers are preferred for supply within city limits and serious problems can arise if these aquifers are not protected from pollution. Other negative consequences of urbanisation can include flooding, water table lowering, and sometimes heating of the subsurface. In Lithuania, all drinking water is supplied by aquifers. Recent work has allowed comprehensive groundwater management plans to be developed that include monitoring and source protection. In developing these plans, full use has been made of GIS and modeling technologies.