ABSTRACT
The process of delineating potential aquifers in order to meet the water demand of the population and industry, by means of investigations in the alluvial valleys of large rivers, most often means: identification of water-yielding capacity of the intake structures, water reserves and also, though far more subordinate in importance, specification of requirements and prospects for quality preservation and protection against contamination of ground waters. Our investigations in the alluvial deposits of Macva region (Western Serbia) at the area of over 1,600 km2 helped us to determine the current quality of groundwater, compose a detailed register of active and potential contaminants, and specify rational protection requirements so that after a preliminary study of the data collected, it may be possible to determine potentiality and devise an optimum capturing method from the regional and local aspects. A comprehensive analysis of current conditions for groundwater replenishment, migration and flowout from a confined aquifer in an alluvial gravel-sand complex was ascribed particular importance, and the interaction of all the registered active and potential contaminants was also considered. The hydrogeological investigations designed and performed as described above, enabled an optimum approach to the full problem area, and opened prospects to continue investigations and initiate technical and economic feasibility studies for the formation of a new local and regional water supply systems.
