A high groundwater level must be combated with a solid data basis

Flooding in low-lying areas is the consequence of a high groundwater level, according to GEUS. This is a great inconvenience for landowners in these areas and also burdens our infrastructure.

A new project will tackle the high groundwater level and create an overview of the data basis needed to quantify and qualify the problems with near-terrain groundwater in Danish urban areas.

"We lack a solid data basis to determine which areas suffer the most from the high water table and where we should take action," says Bo Kempel.

He goes on to explain that especially the geology in the underground is crucial for how the water flows, and this is knowledge that the Danish utilities do not have today.

The goal is a better data basis

The project "Management of Near-Terrain Groundwater" is led by Krüger Ltd. and together with DISUD-Sustainable Development, they will carry out a technical analysis of the applicability of existing groundwater data and hydrological models to create the data basis that the utilities are looking for. In addition, groundwater levels will be mapped and their impact on Aarhus Vand's infrastructure analysed.

Up to 500,000 Danish households are affected by high groundwater levels

In a press release issued by Krüger A/S, it reads:

"We see an increasing need for better data and tools to understand and manage groundwater close to the ground. With this project, we will develop new methods that can help municipalities and utilitues make better decisions about climate adaptation," says Ole Mark, Project Manager at Krüger A/S.

According to screenings, up to 500,000 Danish properties may be affected by rising groundwater. The problem is not just Danish – many European cities face similar challenges.

"By using measurements and artificial intelligence optimally, we can better handle the challenges of climate change's high-level groundwater," says Karsten Krogh Andersen from DISUD-Sustainable Development.

Aarhus Vand makes data and areas available

Aarhus Vand enters the project with data for the near-terrain areas and how it fluctuates up and down seasonally. In addition, the utility makes areas available that are already sewer-separated, because rainwater as a challenge has thus been taken out of the equation.

Bo Kempel is pleased that Aarhus Vand can contribute to creating better conditions for being able to work with a high water table, as the new executive order will prescribe. He also sees Aarhus Municipality as a partner in this, as Aarhus Vand collaborates with the municipality on climate proofing of the city.