What is managed aquifer recharge?

MAR involves the controlled infiltration of surface water, stormwater, or treated wastewater into natural subterranean reservoirs.  However, MAR is not new as it has been around forcenturies, but  ith the advancement of technology and increased environmental concerns, MAR has received renewed interest in recent years. It takes a proactive approach to addressing water scarcity, mitigating the effects of drought, while ensuring the long-term viability of groundwater supplies.

MAR is critical to improving water security and resilience in water-stressed areas. It helps to maintain a healthy groundwater balance, avoid land subsidence, and reduce saltwater intrusion into coastal aquifers by replenishing them.

Moreover, MAR is pivotal in promoting sustainable agriculture, as thissector uses a large amount of global water. Excess surface water can be directed to recharge aquifers using MAR techniques, relieving pressure on groundwater resources and guaranteeing a reliable water supply for agricultural activities.

Water storage

MAR works as a natural water-storage system, allowing surplus water to be stored during times of abundance. When water gets into aquifers, the saved liquid can be used during a drought or high-water demand, providing a dependable and sustainable water supply.

Water-quality improvement

MAR is also a natural filter. As the water gets into aquifers, it infiltrates the earth, and percolates. Therefore, aquifers help eliminate impurities and increase water quality. Purified water can then be extracted for various purposes, including drinking-water supply.

Flood mitigation

By channeling excess water to recharge basins or infiltration ponds, MAR helps to reduce the dangers associated with flooding. By storing this water underground, the burden on surface water systems is reduced, and flood-related damages are minimised.

Environmental advantages

MAR recharge basins and infiltration ponds frequently act as artificial wetlands, providing a habitat for numerous plant and animal species. They help to conserve biodiversity and restore ecosystems.

GHD stands at the forefront of solving the water predicaments of our clients, and managed aquifer recharge is one of the keys to attaining water resilience and sustainability.

Leveraging a deep understanding of hydrogeology, water treatment, and engineering, GHD develops tailored MAR solutions that align with local conditions, regulations, and water-management objectives. Our MAR methods encompass many approaches, including surface spreading, infiltration basins, injection wells, and aquifer storage and recovery.

Learn more about our water services and GHD’s commitment to addressing water scarcity and mitigating the effects of climate change through our published report Aquanomics: The economics of water risk and future resiliency - GHD.

Articles referenced

^{International Groundwater Resources Assessment Center n.d., ‘Managed aquifer recharge (MAR)’, retrieved May 18, 2023, from https://www.un-igrac.org/areas-expertise/managed-aquifer-recharge-mar}

^{International Water Management Institute n.d., ‘Exploring the untapped potential of managed aquifer recharge’, retrieved May 18, 2023, from https://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/2022/02/exploring-the-untapped-potential-of-managed-aquifer-recharge/}

^{National Ground Water Association n.d., ‘Managed aquifer recharge’, retrieved May 18, 2023, from https://www.ngwa.org/what-is-groundwater/groundwater-issues/managed-aquifer-recharge}