Navigating the Impact of Industrial Contaminants on Ecological Resilience in a Complex Hydrogeological Environment
Our research investigates the intricate hydrogeological dynamics of Swan Lake, a unique freshwater body in the Dead Sea transform region, formed as a result of quarrying activities. The lake, crucial for regional biodiversity, particularly as a stopover for migratory birds, faced significant ecological challenges following a 2017 contamination event involving phospho-gypsum wastewater. Through advanced numerical modeling and comprehensive hydrological and geochemical analysis, we explore the interactions between natural geological features, industrial activities, and the contaminant transport processes within the lake. Our findings contribute valuable insights into managing and mitigating environmental risks in similar tectonically active and industrialized settings, offering lessons for sustainable environmental management.