Webinar: Programa Doutoral em Ciências da Terra e do Espaço; UC: Seminário I (Física da Atmosfera e do Clima)
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Challenges and New Approaches for Water Quality Assessment of Reservoirs: Alqueva as a case study
Maria Alexandra Penha
Técnica Superior, Laboratório da Água e ICT, Universidade de Évora
29 April 2020, 16:00, ZOOM: Register in advance for this meeting:
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Abstract
The Water Framework Directive defines reservoirs as Heavily Modified Water bodies as being a water body which, as a result of physical changes derived from human activity, has acquired a substantially different character. Reservoirs can be classified based on mixing pattern, that is, on how many times during a year, lakes have a uniform temperature and density from top to bottom, which allows the whole water column to completely mix. A different classification system is according to their trophic state (Carlson’s index) as Oligotrophic, Mesotrophic, and Eutrophic, from lower to higher Nitrogen and Phosphorus concentration, respectively.
The regulation of many physical, chemical and biological processes is controlled by the thermal stratification and this might be the primary cause of the onset of phytoplankton blooms. These blooms are normally characterized by cyanobacteria, a group of algae that produce toxins and can be harmful to humans and animals. Taking this into account, it might be the appropriate time to start a monitoring program in a more regular and faster way. One of the aims of the Alentejo Observation and Prediction System (ALOP) project is to develop a multifunctional activity in the field of interaction between the atmosphere, water, and ecosystems, which contemplates the observation, prediction, and alert of risk situations. The objective is to improve knowledge of the state of the atmosphere and reservoirs in the Alentejo region, with special emphasis on the Alqueva reservoir and to identify and test technologies for a rapid assessment of potential situations that compromise public health, animal and / or ecosystem integrity.