Hydrogeological and vegetational assessment of Fontanili (lowland springs) in Southern Turin Po Plain (Italy): conservation and environmental impacts

Abstract This study presents the hydrogeological and vegetational context of lowland springs -known in Italian as risorgive or fontanili - in a sector of the southern Po Plain near Turin (north-western Italy). Despite their important ecological role, these springs remain understudied, particularly regarding the effects of climate change and human activities. Not included in Italy’s environmental protection regulations and often poorly maintained, they require accurate identification and characterisation to support monitoring and management by local authorities. This study adopts a multidisciplinary approach, combining hydrogeological analysis with vegetation surveys, an integration rarely found in recent literature. Fontanili in the study area were mapped, and two field campaigns were conducted in summer and autumn 2022. A total of 92 springs was identified, of which only 26 were active during the study period due to prolonged drought. Hydrochemical and piezometric analyses of the shallow aquifer were performed, alongside vegetation surveys carried out at 28 springs in autumn 2022 and spring 2023. Hydrochemical data revealed a contrast between groundwater and surface water characteristics, with calcium bicarbonate prevailing in groundwater and calcium sulphate in surface water. Vegetation data indicated a loss of hygrophilous species linked to water scarcity, along with an increase in invasive alien species. The results highlight the vulnerability of these ecosystems and the urgent need for their conservation. The study aims to raise awareness, promote further research, and encourage local authorities to take concrete action for the protection of these unique lowland spring habitats.