Sustainable Water Resource Management and Conservation Strategies for the Gunungsewu Karst, Indonesia

• Eko Haryono

  Universitas Gadjah Mada

  Author

• Septiono Eko Bawono

  Universitas Gunung Kidul

  Author

• Imsak Rochmadi

  Universitas Gunung Kidul

  Author

The Gunungsewu Karst in Indonesia, a UNESCO Global Geopark, represents a quintessential tropical kegelkarst landscape and serves as a critical regional aquifer. Despite its hydrological significance, the inherent vulnerability of its conduit-dominated drainage systems poses a severe challenge to sustainable water management. This study evaluates the hydro-geomorphological characteristics of the region to establish a robust conservation and management framework. Utilizing a synthesis of stratigraphic mapping and geomorphological analysis, the landscape was categorized into three distinct aquifer sensitivity zones: low, medium, and high. Our findings reveal that the direct connectivity between surface exokarst features—specifically ponors and sinking streams—and subsurface drainage necessitates a differentiated spatial planning approach. Consequently, this paper proposes an integrated management framework that incorporates flood hazard mitigation and the designation of geological nature reserves. The results underscore that the long-term sustainability of Gunungsewu’s water resources is contingent upon the strict preservation of primary infiltration sites and the regulation of anthropogenic activities within high-sensitivity zones. This research provides a strategic blueprint for the protection of vulnerable tropical karst aquifers worldwide

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