Salinization-Desalinization (SDS) Processes—A Linkage between Hula Valley and Lake Kinneret Ecosystem Management

Abstract

The salinization process resulted in agricultural damage in the Hula Valley and water quality deterioration in Lake Kinneret. Therefore, salinization-desalinization (SDS) processes have been emphasized in the last two decades. Global and regional extreme climatological events and water scarcity strengthen the link between Hula Valley and Lake Kinneret management design. A bond between optimizing Hula agricultural maintenance and Kinneret water quality protection is conclusively suggested. Saline contribution originated from the southern Hula Valley region to the underground and surface water is higher than from the northern organic soil. The impact of eastern water Intrusion from the Golan Heights as surface waters, river discharge and underground seepage into the Hula Valley represent north-south gradient enhancement. Salinized surface water contribution from the Hula Valley to Lake Kinneret is unwanted because presently Kinneret desalinization management policy is critically required. The present salinization of surface and underground water in the Hula Valley indicates the upper limit suitable for agricultural crop optimization and the decline of salinity is crucial. Enhancement of the portion of Jordan water within the total balance in the valley is beneficial for Hula agricultural crops but serves as a disadvantage to Kinneret desalinization implementation. Therefore, the enhancement of lake water exchange is recommended.