Groundwater-dependent ponds as a nature-based solution for enhancing climate resilience in Mediterranean agroecosystems

Mediterranean Agro-silvo-pastoral Ecosystems (MAEs) are increasingly affected by droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, water scarcity, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss. The DRYAD project tackles these challenges by demonstrating climate-resilient Nature-based Solutions (NbS) tailored to MAEs. One NbS focuses on implementing groundwater-dependent ponds (GDPs) to ensure continuous water availability. The methodology includes identifying optimal GDP locations using artificial intelligence and assessing excavation depth, size, and sustainability through integrated hydrological modeling. Because pond installation requires fencing to maintain water quality, an automated off-pond LoRaWAN-based livestock watering system is proposed. To minimize evaporation losses, solar shading and windbreak structures are also recommended. The installation of artificial GDPs will benefit stakeholders in the demonstration areas of Alentejo (Portugal) and Sardón (Castilla y León, Spain) by providing reliable, clean water sources for livestock and enhancing the resilience of MAEs to climate-related stressors.