Hydrogeology and groundwater modelling for the EMR region Einstein Telescope facility

The project focuses on assessing and mitigating groundwater impacts of the planned Einstein Telescope underground infrastructure in the Meuse-Rhine (EMR) region. Specifically, it aims to quantify groundwater inflows into tunnels and caverns and their impact on aquifers and rivers. Aiming to reduce uncertainty linked to highly heterogeneous hydraulic conductivity, high-resolution groundwater flow models (building on regional models) will be developed and refined. With this, environmental impacts (e.g., drawdown, baseflow reduction) will be evaluated. The project contemplates the design and test mitigation measures, notably grouting and Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR).