Distribution and Characteristics of Springs in Two Neighboring Areas of Different Morphogenic Relief Type—Example of SW Medvednica Mountain (Central Croatia)

Abstract

Hydrogeological characteristics of certain areas are the most important factor in the distribution and hydrological characteristics of springs. Nevertheless, geomorphological, i.e., morphometrical characteristics can also play an important role in their distribution and/or can serve as spatial indicators of spring positions. This study compares the distribution of springs, their hydrological and morphometric characteristics in two neighboring areas of different morphogenic relief types in the Medvednica mountain (central Croatia), as well as their relationship with known faults. Results show that most of the springs in both areas researched have discharges between 0.01 L/s and 0.1 L/s. Nevertheless, in the fluviokarst area, there is a higher share of springs with discharges higher than 0.1 L/s. Morphometric characteristics of springs studied (altitude, slope, relative relief, curvature and Topographic Wetness Index (TWI)) have shown certain differences that are connected to the hydrogeological characteristics of the area. Results indicate that spring locations in the fluviodenudation relief area are more connected to the geomorphological processes caused by surface and shallow underground water runoff, while in the fluviokarst relief, that connection is less pronounced. Research has also shown that spring distribution in both areas is connected to faults, with somewhat higher concurrence in the fluviodenudation relief.