THE HYDROLOGICAL BALANCE OF A GROUNDWATER DISCHARGE FEN

Linear regression analysis and weekly water level measurements were used to study the hydrological balance of a groundwater discharge fen. The main water flows pertain to rainfall, evapotranspiration, and groundwater discharge. Owing to the high water table in depressions, rainfall is transformed partly to direct runoff. This process depends on the landform of the study area and on the daily distribution of rainfall and evapotranspiration. During very dry summers, evaporation causes a drop in the water table. Such events may be important for plant life in the fen. Protection of the regional groundwater flow and regulation of the ditches are potential measures for hydrological management of the site.