A new karst modelling approach along different tectonic contacts
This project utilises the well-documented Koiliaris Critical Zone Observatory in Crete-Greece to bring together the disciplines of structural geology, geomorphology, and speleology with hydrology modeling. Its primary objective is to address a key challenge in karst hydrology: determining the unknown or "extended" watershed areas that contribute to inter-catchment flow in karstic regions.
The project aims to achieve two main outcomes. Firstly, to facilitate knowledge transfer in areas lacking advanced hydrology modeling capabilities, such as the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Secondly, it endeavors to pioneer a new methodology in karst hydrology modeling by leveraging extensive geological data (such as faults, fold axes, etc.) within physically-based hydrology models like the Penn State Integrated Hydrology Model (PIHM).
Key information
Daniel Moraetis
Project Leader
Department of Applied Physics and Astronomy, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
Highlights
Hydrogeology and Structural Geology in Subduction Zones workshop
This workshop was held at the University of Sharjah campus in November 2023, and offered both in-person and online participation. Its objectives were to:
- Amplify young researchers' comprehension of the intricate geometry, dynamic processes, and tectonic structures linked to subduction zones, while advancing their understanding of groundwater movement.
- Provide hands-on training through a specialized workshop on 3D geological and hydrogeological modeling, guided by expert instructors. Participants gained practical skills in geological modeling techniques.
Highlights included a presentation on active tectonics and earthquake generation in subduction zones by Dr. Vasiliki Mouslopoulou, and a comprehensive training in VisualKarsys 3D hydrogeology modeling by Dr. Arnauld Malard.
Field Trip to Greece
The IGCP 715 team hosted a workshop at the Technical University of Crete in June 2022, with an afternoon excursion to the Stylos Spring and Koiliaris stand-alone station.
There was a field training and field visit to the Gourgouthakas and Liontari caves with the aim of characterizing the geomorphologic features of the extended karts of the Koiliaris Critical Zone Observatory.
International CZO Field Trip
Electromagnetic field survey at the Yaji Karst Critical Zone Observatory, November 2021.
This project was developed with the generous financial support of the Jeju Province Development Co. (JPDC).
