Impact of pesticides to groundwater resources in an alluvial plain using a geographical information system

A methodology to evaluate the impact of pesticides to drinking water resources in an agricultural region has been applied in an Italian alluvial plain using a Geographical Information System (GIS). With this technology it is possible to store, process and represent geographical data and update them according to the environmental characteristics. The studied area, covering a surface of 500 km2, is located immediately south of Milan, in the alluvial plain of the Po river. The DRASTIC model (1) has been utilized in order to evaluate the intrinsic vulnerability of aquifers, DRASTIC is a quantitative method proposed by EPA to identify pollution potential especially referred to pesticides in USA. The application of this model, combined with data of land use has provided maps identifying areas at risk for groundwater pollution. Information derived from risk maps is of primary importance in territorial planning such as: selection of areas to be monitored, identification of areas to be protected, correct management of agricultural practices and use of pesticides. These maps should provide an useful instrument for agricultural and territorial management.

Programmes and activities of the International Centre for Pesticide Safety

The International Centre for Pesticide Safety (ICPS) is a research unit of the National Health Service created by the Government of the Region of Lombardy at the proposal of the World Health Organization-Regional Office for Europe, in cooperation with the University of Milan, and in agreement with the Italian Ministry of Health. ICPS operates in the following areas of activity: information and documentation on pesticide toxicity to man and environment, epidemiological, toxicological and clinical research on effects of pesticides in man; training and education of personnel in public health, assessment of environmental and health impact of pesticides by means of Geographical Information Systems, laboratory research for development and standardisation of methods for residue measurement in environmental and biological media. ICPS is also a centre of international meetings and continuing education courses. A number of projects carried out or underway at ICPS are briefly described in this paper.