MODELING AND TESTING RESULTS OF OPTIONS WITHIN THE FLUMENDOSA CASE STUDIES (AQUASTRESS Final Deliverable D3.2-4 IRSA-CNR)

SWAT Model (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) has been applied to define a modelling framework to assess the sustainability of land uses in water-limited environments and to formulate a list of alternative land uses allowing the attainment of water quality. The "Perceptual Model" has been developed, it is a conceptualization based on measured data and on insight offered by the model of the principal processes acting in the catchment. Some options, selected with experts and stakeholders, have been simulated and their respective efficiency in reducing nutrient load has been evaluated. All of these options have been analyzed and evaluated considering water quality, socioeconomic and environmental sustainability. The involvement of the local stakeholders and end-users has been fundamental in all stages of the project, in particular, with their contribution the options realistic, in relation to the local society, economy and environment, have been selected.