Monitoring Aquifer Quality for Artificial Recharge within the WARBO Project

The macroinvertebrate community and physical-chemical parameters were monitored in a naturally flooded quarry (Copparo, Ferrara, Italy) chosen as an experimental site within WARBO project for aquifer artificial recharge. The biotic indices showed low species richness, diversity and evenness. Some species were abundant while others were detected only in autumn. Through canonical correspondence analysis, community dynamics resulted affected by changes in physical-chemical parameters. Since the aquifer quality was still unsuitable for artificial recharge, an attempt was made to lower the wetland temperature by phytodepuration and fast-growing local trees. Water quality will be monitored until the aquifer becomes suitable for WARBO.