Development of guidelines for monitoring snow-ice fed mountain streams. The IdroStelvio network (Stelvio National Park, Italy)

Abstract

We present the main outcomes of the IDROSTELVIO project, a continuous (2010-2025) monitoring initiative in cooperation between Stelvio National Park Authority, the University of Milano, and Politecnico di Milano. The project consisted in the establishment, maintenance and survey of a hydrometric network monitoring 11 high-altitude streams predominantly fed by snow/ice meltwater. The IDROSTELVIO network is amongst the most extensive and long-standing case studies of hydrological monitoring in glacierized environments, both in Italy and abroad. The strategies adopted for its implementation and data management offer a valuable contribution to the development of guidelines in the field of glacio-hydrology. The collected data are useful for scientific research, e.g. for model tuning in the field of glacio-hydrology, forecast of future water resources, and to support educational activities for the general public. The monitoring system, covering approximately 32% of the park’s area, and more than 90% of glacierized catchments therein, provides a comprehensive view of the hydrological dynamics of this sensitive Alpine region. Here we outline the structure and evolution of the IDROSTELVIO network, we report the challenges faced in data collection and sensor maintenance, and we discuss data use for water resources modeling and scenario analysis. The experience gained within the IDROSTELVIO framework may serve as a model for similar initiatives in other high mountain protected areas.