Abstract: The Szigetköz region in northwest Hungary remains ecologically fragile. It lies in the middle of the Danube River and is part of a network of rivers in the region. In the past 40 y, the groundwa-ter and surface water levels have fluctuated over a wide range due to anthropogenic influences. This paper discusses recent efforts to predict the contribution of surface infiltration water to the shallow groundwater table throughout the island and focuses on groundwater movement within the area. The approach is to apply Hydrus unsaturated flow software at different scales using 1, 2, and 3-dimensional models. The models will require meteorological, groundwater, and soil moisture data to assess and predict the impacts of irrigation, local water conservation prac-tices, stormwater collection, and pumping for drinking water. While this study presents prelim-inary analyses to demonstrate proof of concept, anticipated scenarios include effects of climate change, river and control channel level changes, and land use practices. The advantage of this approach is its versatility in examining many different scenarios and evaluating their impact at local (~100-500 m) meso (500-1500 m) and large (2000 m+) scales.

The research advances our knowledge of hydrological processes in the Szigetköz Island area, underscores the importance of sustainable groundwater management practices, and provides insights into optimizing water resource allocation while ensuring the long-term sustainability of groundwater reserves. It highlights the significance of groundwater recharge and discharge zones in sustaining ecosystem services and maintaining hydrological balance.