Study on water supply in the Pinzgau central area: Analysis of groundwater flows and cooperation between suppliers

Study on water supply in the Pinzgau central area: Analysis of groundwater flows and cooperation between suppliers

In order to avoid problems, solutions are offered to the water supply in the Pinzgau central area. Yesterday the study “Water Supply for the Pinzgau Central Area” was presented, which provides a comprehensive analysis of groundwater flows, potential drinking water extraction areas and the cooperation between suppliers in the region. The municipalities of Zell am See, Maishofen and Saalfelden initiated and carried out this study together with the Water Management Department of the State of Salzburg. The aim was to find long-term solutions for water supply and to strengthen cooperation between suppliers.

The study provides important data about the existing water reserves in the region and analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of the supply systems. It serves as a handbook for municipalities and cooperatives for long-term planning of water supply, particularly with regard to climate change and its impacts. The results of the study enable better exploration of additional supply bases and recommend closer cooperation between water suppliers.

The drinking water supply in Saalfelden is currently not in short supply, but the study provides important information about the current situation and identifies potential weak points. The city is currently working on building a new deep well to provide additional water for the south of Saalfelden. The cooperatives also play an important role in the drinking water supply and support each other.

The study also includes a comprehensive analysis of the organizational structures and future scenarios of drinking water supply. The underground connections between the groundwater flows and the slope water are examined. The data shows suitable areas for drinking water supply and provides recommendations for closer cooperation between water suppliers.

The communities in the Pinzgau central area have different supply structures. In Zell am See, drinking water is provided by the municipality and three cooperatives, while in Saalfelden there is a municipal supply system and 12 cooperatives. Maishofen has six cooperatives that are responsible for the drinking water supply.

The study was done in two parts. The “Water Management” part comes from Manfred Nagl from the Salzburg Hydrological Research Center. The second part “Geology and Hydrogeology” was developed by Giorgio Höfer-Ölinger (Geoconsult ZT GmbH) and Wolfgang Jaritz (mjp ZT GmbH). The costs of 72,000 euros were borne by the state of Salzburg and the municipalities of Zell am See, Saalfelden and Maishofen.

The study provides important insights for sustainable water supply in the Pinzgau central area and offers guidelines for the future. It helps communities and cooperatives prepare for possible challenges and improve collaboration. A comprehensive summary of the study and further information can be found on the State of Salzburg website.

Source: service.salzburg.gv.at