The annual potential evaporation far exceeds the annual rainfall (Figure 2) with a mean
annual amount of approximately 1505 mm (1975–2010). The area has complicated land use
characteristics, mainly consisting of agricultural and urban/residential areas. Groundwater
has been used for various purposes, such as drinking, agricultural, domestic and industrial
needs. The most important economic activity of the area is agriculture, the chief crops are
garlic (Allium sativum), potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.),
with actual irrigation being lower than total theoretical demand, as there is a considerable
deficit in relation to the amount of irrigated land.