Prerequisites:

First-cycle Bologna degree or a university degree in the natural sciences.

Content (Syllabus outline):

• Hydrological circle;
• Hydrogeological characteristics of sediments and rocks, aquifer;
• Soil water and infiltration;
• Aquifer recharge;
• Groundwater flow;
• Aquifer discharge, springs;
• Hydrogeochemistry;
• Research methods in hydrogeology;
• Use of groundwater;
• Water pollution and protection.

Readings:

• Ford, D. C., Williams, P., 2007: Karst Hydrogeology and Geomorphology. Wiley, Chichester: 562 str. (poglavje 5/chapter 5).
• Stevanović, Z. (ur.), 2015: Karst Aquifers – Characterization  and Engineerin. Springer, Cham: 692 str. (poglavje 3/chapter 3).
• Izbrani članki iz revij/Selected articles from journals (Acta Carsologica, Geologija, Hydrogeology Journal, Journal of Hydrology; Water Resources Research).

Objectives and competences:

The purpose of the course is to familiarize the students with the characteristics of the occurrence and flow of underground water. The course will define basic concepts, methods and research topics in the field of hydrogeology. The emphasis will be on the role of groundwater in hydrological cycle and its connections with other subsystems. Various aquifer types, and the processes of their recharge and discharge will be presented. The students will learn about the influence of geological composition on water chemistry and about the importance of monitoring of physical, chemical and microbiological parameters for better understanding of the source of groundwater and characteristics of its flow. Methods of hydrogeological researches will be learned. The importance of groundwater for the drinking water supply and its proper protection against pollution will be emphasised.

Intended learning outcomes:

• Knowledge of basic concepts of hydrogeology;
• Understanding of characteristics of occurrence and flow of groundwater;
• Knowledge of modern research topics in the field of hydrogeology;
• Understanding of the importance of underground water resources and knowledge of the principles of their proper use and protection;
• Capability of autonomous review and assessment of literature and sources).

Assessment:

Exam (70 %), written paper (30 %).