The XXXII Almássy Endre Conference on Groundwater, the traditional professional yearly event of the Foundation for Groundwater, was held in Siófok on 5–6 May 2026. The conference with 168 participants provided an important meeting point for Hungarian hydrogeological research, water management issues and practical experience.
The József and Erzsébet Tóth Endowed Hydrogeology Chair contributed to the scientific programme with two presentations. Dr. Anita Erőss gave a presentation entitled “Tracking the groundwater feeding Lake Velence using radon measurements”, which focused on the investigation of groundwater inflows contributing to the water budget of Lake Velence. By applying radon as a tracer, the research helps to improve our understanding of how groundwater may feed shallow lake systems affected by water shortage.
Dóra Méri, 2nd year Earth Sciences BSc student of ELTE also gave a presentation at the conference, entitled “On the hot trail: Current hydrochemical characterisation of the riverbed springs along the Danube section in front of Gellért Hill”. Her presentation focused on a special phenomenon of the Budapest thermal karst system: the riverbed thermal springs appearing along the Danube section in front of Gellért Hill. Through the current hydrochemical characterisation of these springs, the study provided insight into the functioning of groundwater flow systems.
The two presentations were closely aligned with the professional focus of the conference: both studies centred on the relationship between groundwater and surface water bodies, investigated through tracer and hydrochemical methods. The Chair’s participation also highlighted that understanding the role of groundwater is essential for the sustainable water management of water-scarce areas, shallow lakes, riverside systems and thermal karst environments.