Silting Effect on Tidal Basin Circulation: A Case Study

Management of coastal lagoons is of paramount importance for ensuring the safeguarding of ecosystems and human activities. The growing threats due to climate change and anthropogenic pressure require specific measures to be addressed in these areas. Thus, a detailed knowledge about the dynamics of these coastal systems is needed for planning and designing strategies aimed at preserving their integrity. This study is focused on the investigation, monitoring and analysis of the environmental integration framework of the complex drainage system located in the wetland areas of the municipality of Porto Cesareo (southern Italy). In particular, the study area is characterized by the hydraulic system of Bacino Fede, a coastal lagoon designed in the wider framework of the land reclamation activities carried out during the twentieth century. This research was carried out in relation to the morphological, hydrological and hydraulic characteristics of the study area, with the purpose of identifying and investigating any induced critical states, both general and specific, related to the hydraulic functionality of the system. Relevant insights on the hydraulic behavior of the Bacino Fede basin were obtained through mathematical modeling, thus leading to an improved knowledge of the dynamics of the area. The technical and scientific contribution thus acquired could represent an important resource for the stakeholders and decision-makers that play an active role in management of this area.