An inevitable episode: Salination of Gonyeli pond (dam)

Abstract

The results of recent studies at Gonyeli pond, located close to the capital of Cyprus, indicate that salination is a serious threat. The pond is among the oldest artificial lakes built in Cyprus. Its water capacity is one million cubic meters and it is basically used for irrigation purposes. A limnological study of the pond was initiated in December 1995, and monthly sampling from 1 meter depth continued till June 1997. Among others, salinity (parts per thousand, ppt) and total dissolved solids (TDS) were measured regularly. During this period, salinity and TDS of the pond increased very markedly, ie. salinity increased from 2 ppt to approximately 4.5 ppt and TDS from 2g/L to 12 gn. Extrapolation of the data indicates that in case the salinity increase remains at the same rate, it will reach 15 ppt in 40 months and 38 ppt (Mediterranean average salinity) in 180-192 months.