DWARF

About the project:

Increasing levels of Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) is a large challenge for Drinking Water Treatment Plants. Surface water is the source for more than 50% of drinking water in the Czech Republic. In the region of South Bohemia surface water supports drinking water for more than 350 thousand people from the reservoirs (Římov, Husinec, Jordán) and Otava River. Catchments of these sources will be characterized with respect to the sources of DOM and their temporal and spatial variability resulting in a map of DOM sources with future predictions. A methodology for outflow control in reservoirs to minimize the effect of flood events with high DOM levels will be developed. A cooperation among basin authorities, drinking water producers and Czech and Norway research partners will be established.

2021

During the first year we started collecting of historical data for water quality in the catchments of studied drinking water treatment plants. Studied catchments were mapped and described regarding land-use, forest quality, and geology. Water samples were collected regularly in different season to get detailed data on chemical quality of raw water. Pilot experiment of flotation technology was conducted at drinking water treatment plant Studená to test its ability to remove increased concentrations of dissolved organic matter.

2022

During the second year we finished collecting of historical data for water quality in the catchments of studied drinking water treatment plants. Studied catchments were mapped and described regarding land-use, forest quality, and geology. Water samples were collected regularly in different season to get detailed data on chemical quality of raw water. Mathematical models of DOC in Římov reservoir and its catchment were created and tested. The first version of map of DOC export from the Římov reservoir catchment was created.

2023

During the third year we finished work on the map of DOM in the catchment of Římov reservoir showing concentrations and fluxes in sub-catchments and the predicted concentrations of DOM based on future climate scenarios. We published two scientific papers with project results. Organized the workshop on project results for professionals. Continued in monitoring of water quality and treatment processes in particular catchments and treatment plants.

2024

The fourth year of the project saw the completion and publication of a methodology titled “Operational Management of Water Quality in Reservoirs by Discharge Mode, Short-Circuiting of Inflow, and Selective Discharging from Different Depths.” This methodology aims to improve water quality management in reservoirs, ensuring better readiness for future water treatment challenges. The DWARF project has significantly advanced our understanding of water quality management, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by increased DOM concentrations. Through detailed mapping, regular monitoring, and innovative pilot experiments, the project has laid the groundwork for improved drinking water treatment processes and future readiness.

Beneficiary and project partners:

Biologické centrum AV ČR, v. v. i.
Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO)
Norwegian Institute for Water Research
Drikkevannskonsult – B. Eikebrokk
Oslo Metropolitan University

The Drinking WAter Readiness for the Future project benefits from a € 0.95 mil. grant from Norway and the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic.
The project is carried out under the KAPPA funding programme for applied research, experimental development and innovation, managed by the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic.