Artificial Groundwater Recharge
Science Center Objects
Groundwater levels are declining across the country as our withdrawals exceed the rate of aquifers to naturally replenish themselves, called recharge. One method of controlling declining water levels is by using artificial groundwater recharge. The USGS monitors wells to evaluate the effect of groundwater depletion and recharge, and provides vital information to those who depend on groundwater resources.
BACKGROUND
Artificial recharge is the practice of increasing the amount of water that enters an aquifer through human-controlled means. For example, groundwater can be artificially recharged by redirecting water across the land surface through canals, infiltration basins, or ponds; adding irrigation furrows or sprinkler systems; or simply injecting water directly into the subsurface through injection wells.
AQUIFER STORAGE AND RECOVER
Aquifer storage and recovery is a water-storage technique applied by water-resource managers and scientists worldwide. Essentially, it involves storage of available water through wells completed into aquifers, with subsequent retrieval from these same wells during dry periods. Recovery of water stored in these wells greatly benefits environmental, agricultural, and urban uses.
RELATED USGS RESEARCH
The USGS has played an active role in artificial recharge studies dating back to 19051. Based on the number of current studies, USGS investigations of aquifer storage and recovery are just as essential today as they were 100 years ago.
- What is Aquifer Storage and Recovery?
- Historical Overview of Hydrologic Studies of Artificial Recharge in the USGS
- USGS Groundwater and Streamflow Information Program
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Aquifer Recharge and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
- Aquifer Storage and Recovery Fact Sheet (U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency)
- An Introduction to Artificial Recharge (The National Academies of Press)