Geostatistical Analysis of Spatial Isotope Variability to Map the Sources of Water for Hydrology Studies

The CRP addressed a common problem found when using isotopes in environmental studies, namely the use of tested geostatistical approaches to properly map spatial (both in 2D and 3D) and temporal variability of hydrological, hydrochemical and isotope data, being this aspect a key problem at the time of conveying the results of isotope/geochemical studies in a non-scientific format. This is often is the case found by counterparts of TC projects, when the final reports of the studies, mainly containing substantial scientific terminology, leading to limited understanding to non-experts of the conclusions and recommendations. The counterpart institutes involved in this CRP acquired and shared extremely valuable experience in the development/maintenance of dedicated isotope and hydrochemical data bases, use of adequate GIS/mapping software packages, as well as in the use of existing methodologies to better visualize and present the main conclusions and results of hydrological studies. The experience gained in this CRP was also relevant to the IAEA, allowing the development of better protocols for the operation of global isotope monitoring networks, field work protocols, isotope data handling, and preparation of technical reports by counterparts of TC projects. Several internal repots and scientific publications in international journals and symposia (such as the IAEA's Symposium in Monaco 2011, the European Geosciences Union conferences, etc.) were also generated by the CRP participants.