River systems of the Volyn region: status, problems, and ways of preservation

Abstract

Introduction. River systems of the Volyn region are important components of the natural environment, ensuring the functioning of aquatic ecosystems, the formation of the hydrological regime of the territory, and the satisfaction of the needs of the population and the economy in water resources. Under current climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressure, they are undergoing significant transformations, manifested in changes in the hydrological regime, deterioration of water quality, and degradation of natural ecosystems. This necessitates their comprehensive ecological assessment, identification of key influencing factors, and development of effective approaches to water resource conservation and rational use.

Purpose. The aim of the study is a comprehensive assessment of the ecological status of river systems in the Volyn region under current environmental conditions, identification of the main threats to aquatic ecosystems, analysis of the level of anthropogenic load, and substantiation of scientific and practical approaches to their conservation and sustainable use.

Relevance. The relevance of the study is driven by the increasing anthropogenic pressure on small river basins associated with agricultural development, land reclamation, urbanization, and other economic activities. This leads to disruption of natural runoff formation processes, degradation of aquatic ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and deterioration of water quality. These problems are particularly acute in the Polissya region and the forest-steppe zone of Volyn.

Methods. The study applies a set of general scientific and specialized methods, including comparative geographical analysis to identify spatial differences, mathematical statistics for data processing and interpretation, cartographic analysis for mapping basin structure, field observations for primary data collection, and synthesis. The research is based on integrated methodological approaches, including genetic, historical, systemic, and basin-based frameworks.

Results. The study provides a systematic analysis of the current state of river basin systems in Volyn and identifies the types and intensity of anthropogenic pressure on lowflow watercourses. Both qualitative and quantitative indicators of anthropogenic impact were established, and a system of indices for assessing the degree of environmental transformation was developed. An evaluation of the ecological status of water bodies was conducted, revealing key trends in their changes.

Novelty. The scientific novelty lies in the development and improvement of methodological approaches for analyzing and assessing anthropogenic transformations in small river catchments, enabling more accurate determination of ecological change levels and forecasting the further development of river systems.

Practical significance. The results can be used to improve water resource monitoring systems, develop environmental protection measures, enhance water management efficiency, and ensure the rational use of water resources in various sectors of the economy.

Discussion. The study analyzes natural, climatic, and physical-geographical factors influencing river runoff formation, assesses the impact of key economic sectors on aquatic ecosystems, and identifies major degradation drivers. A set of measures aimed at reducing anthropogenic pressure, improving water quality, and restoring the natural functioning of river systems is proposed.