The past two years have been full of energy, growth, and strategic vision for ECHN-Italy, the Early Career Hydrogeologists’ Network of the The International Association of Hydrogeologists. These annual updates are more than just a list of accomplishments: they capture the dynamic role young hydrogeologists play in advancing groundwater science in Italy and beyond.

∇ – Building a Stronger Community

ECHN-Italy has expanded its presence nationally, with increasing numbers of active members and stronger integration within the Italian IAH committee. The new chairs, elected in late 2023, includes passionate researchers committed to growing the network and amplifying the voice of early-career scientists.

∇ – Science on Stage

In 2024 and 2025, ECHN-Italy was deeply involved in organizing key sessions at national events like Flowpath, GIT, and the joint SIMP-SGI-SOGEI-AIV congress. These sessions tackled topics ranging from groundwater modeling and sustainability to ecosystem protection and geothermal applications.

∇ – Innovation, Data, and the Road Ahead

A major theme emerging in recent activities and round tables is innovation, especially the growing role of artificial intelligence in hydrogeology. ECHN-Italy has spotlighted the promise of machine learning and data-driven methods for improving groundwater resource management. At the same time, the community is raising awareness around the need for standardized, accessible hydrogeological databases at the national scale.

∇ – Resources

Di Giovanni, A., Citrini, A., & Edigio, E. (2024). ECHN-Italy: overview of activities from the last year and future challenges. ACQUE SOTTERRANEE, 13(1), 123-125.
Citrini, A., Lepore, D., & Sartirana, D. (2025). Innovation and the Future of Hydrogeology: the point of view of ECHN-Italy. Acque Sotterranee-Italian Journal of Groundwater, 14(1).