The Cold Springs of the Dieng Plateau

Abstract Traditionally, spring water has been an important resource for providing clean water and irrigation. The Dieng Plateau in Central Java is designated as a National Tourism Strategic Area (KSPN). Located within three groundwater basins – Wonosobo, Karangkobar, and Subah – the Dieng Plateau faces challenges in meeting its clean water needs. With the growth of tourism in Dieng, ensuring adequate quality and quantity of clean water is essential. Many cold springs in the area have not been fully utilized. Therefore, conducting a thorough inventory of these springs is crucial to meet the community’s future demand for clean water, both in terms of quality and quantity. This study gathered data on the presence of springs, along with measurements of groundwater’s physical-chemical properties and spring discharge rates. Mapping results identified 16 springs in the study area, with a total discharge of 251 liters per second, and a maximum discharge of 133.2 liters per second in the Karangkobar Groundwater Basin. The springs on the Dieng Plateau meet drinking water standards based on current regulations and guidelines for physical-chemical parameters. This is evidenced by an average pH value of 7.07, an average TDS of 206.1 mg/L, an average EC of 412.1 μS/cm, and an average temperature of 18.2°C. The springs in the Dieng area are classified as cold/normal springs based on groundwater temperature and have significant potential as a source of raw water.