COP parameter: O (Overlying layers). Upper Guadiana Basin (UGB).

The O factor considers the protection provided to the aquifer by the physical properties and thickness of the layers above the saturated zone. In the pilot area, the Upper Guadiana Basin, the groundwater level has high variability varying from less than 1 m to more than 250 m. The lithology in the northern area is poorly permeable and higher permeability values can be found in the south. The soil texture in the northern area is predominantly silty-loam. The protection of the overlying layers estimated by “O” factor is high in 43% of the area, moderate in 29% of the area and very low in 13% of the area.