This book reviews the hydrogeology of karst systems, starting with the classifications from the applied point of view, and then the hydraulic parameters (porosity, permeability, and transmissivity). It also addresses the karstification process, its resulting forms, and their hydrogeological significance. Besides, the author describes possible models of karstic aquifers and their characterization. The book also explains the classical methods for analyzing hydrograms of karst springs and deepens the analysis of time series, as a preliminary phase to the mathematical simulation of karst aquifers. Finally, it introduces the hydrogeochemical characterization of karst, of the processes involved as well as the possible pollution and protection of karst aquifers. This book is intended to be of interest for professionals in hydrogeology as well as graduate and undergraduate students.

The importance of investigating karstified aquifers lies in their significance as a major source of drinking water. This book describes methods that are basic to all hydrogeological studies, such as hydraulic investigations, hydrochemistry, geophysics, isotope chemistry and modelling, but with the emphasis placed on their application to karst systems. Other techniques are specific to the karst environment, such as the speleological exploration of aquifers and water tracing. The various chapters of this book are written by experts in different methods. Most of the chapters are multi-authored, and the authors include hydrogeologists who are experienced in evaluating a variety of karst environments and who together, provide a comprehensive review of karst methods.

One quarter of the world's population lives in karst terrains, yet karsts are highly vulnerable to stresses caused by human activity. This book surveys human impact on karst water, showing that the increasing pollution of the environment has, to a great extent, spoiled sensitive karst ecosystems. This text examines such consequences and offers proposals for future solutions and strategies. Part One provides an overview of the functioning of karsts and of human interaction with karst environments over several millennia. Part Two consists of a systematic examination of the major areas of human activity affecting karst waters, such as agriculture, industry, mining and water exploitation. Finally, Part Three views the effects on karst groundwater within a broader societal and legislative perspective and considers possible changes of methodology and approach.

A complete guide to the management and restoration of water in karst environments Written by the co-chair of the Karst Commission of the International Association of Hydrogeologists, this book addresses the unique challenges related to the characterization, management, and protection of karst aquifers, which are present on all continents and numerous oceanic islands. Water in Karst describes karst hydrogeology and hydrology, surface water–groundwater interactions, site investigation, data collection, delineation of drainage areas, groundwater extraction, regulatory issues, and water vulnerability and restoration. Predictive modeling methods and solutions to resource contamination and overexploitation are included. Photos, diagrams, and an eight-page color insert illustrate the concepts presented in this practical, comprehensive reference. WATER IN KARST COVERS: Karst aquifers Flow measurements and analysis Drainage areas in karst General principles of water management Regulations and education Predictive models Floods, droughts, and climate change Groundwater extraction Engineering regulation of karst aquifers and springs Vulnerability of water in karst Restoration of water in karst

This text covers topics such as sinkhole formation and regional studies of sinkholes and karst. Issues addressed are taken from the 8th multidiscilinary conference on this subject and chart the characteristics of sinkholes and karst as well as their environmental repercussions.