Assessment of different types of anthropopressure on selected karst springs in Poland – implementation of the MIKAS project (Most Important Karst Aquifer Springs)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the impact of various forms of anthropogenic pressure on selected karst springs in Poland, regarded as elements of “natural heritage”: Blue Springs, Goryczkowe Vauclusian Spring, and Zygmunt Spring. These springs are located in different regions of Poland and represent the most efficient karst springs in their respective areas, distinguished by exceptional aesthetic values and have been recognized as natural heritage sites and included in the international Most Important Karst Aquifer Springs (MIKAS) database or its national counterpart (NIKAS). A key factor differentiating these springs is the type of anthropogenic pressure exerted upon them. In the case of Blue Springs, located in central Poland near Tomaszów Mazowiecki, anthropopressure is manifested through modifications to the hydrological network and flow conditions due to attempts to extract groundwater for the municipal water supply of Łódź. Goryczkowe Vauclusian Spring, located in southern Poland within the Tatra National Park, is subject to indirect anthropogenic impact primarily via atmospheric deposition of pollutants originating from industrialized regions outside the park. For Zygmunt Spring, located in southern Poland, the dominant form of anthropopressure is intensive tourism. Despite its status as a nature reserve, the area has suffered from a reduction in biodiversity and poor water quality, particularly in terms of bacteriological status. Despite ongoing pro-environmental efforts, environmental changes around all the studied springs are evident and scientifically confirmed. Although the springs’ location within parks or reserves does not shield them from long-range atmospheric pollution, it does provide a level of protection by limiting both water usage and land development, generally restricted to tourism and sightseeing. Nevertheless, risks associated with tourism management must be acknowledged, including increased water demand, wastewater and solid waste generation, as well as non-compliance with regulations governing protected areas (e.g., destruction of unique vegetation).