Integrated Surface Water and Groundwater Management in the Algarve (southern Portugal) the Role of Numerical Modelling in Regional Water Resources Planning
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The Algarve region, in southern Portugal, is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with pronounced seasonal and interannual variability, where increasing water demand, recurrent droughts, and climate change have intensified pressure on both surface water and groundwater resources. Sustainable management of these resources requires an integrated approach that recognizes the strong hydraulic interactions between reservoirs, river systems, and aquifer systems. This paper presents the Algarve as a representative case study of conjunctive surface water and groundwater management supported by regional numerical modelling. The study reviews the development of a regional groundwater flow model designed as a decision-support tool for water resources planning, enabling the evaluation of groundwater abstraction, reservoir operation, artificial recharge, and the impacts of different management scenarios. Particular attention is given to the contribution of numerical modelling in improving water allocation, protecting coastal aquifers against seawater intrusion, assessing groundwater recharge, and enhancing the resilience of water supply systems under prolonged drought conditions. The paper also discusses the evolution of integrated water resources management over the past two decades, highlighting recent advances in hydrogeological modelling, geographic information systems, remote sensing, climate impact assessment, and decision-support methodologies. The Algarve experience demonstrates that regional numerical models provide an effective scientific framework for optimizing conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater while supporting adaptive management strategies in Mediterranean regions facing increasing water scarcity. The lessons derived from this study are applicable to many semi-arid coastal regions worldwide where sustainable water management has become a major environmental and socio-economic challenge.
Source: Larhyss journal
Authors: PAULO MONTEIRO, J.; Ph.D. in Hydrogeology, Auxiliary Professor Universidade do Algarve, FCMA, GeoSystems Centre CVRM (IST) Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, COSTA MANUEL, S.; Senior Agronomic Engineer, Private Consultant and Ph.D. Student
Algarve University, FERN - Faculty of Engineering of Natural Resources
Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro
Institution: University of Algarve
Language: English
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7217730516
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: