ASR and Aquifer Recharge Using Wells

Abstract

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) using wells includes aquifer storage and recovery (ASR; local storage of water by injection and recovery using often the same well), aquifer recharge using wells (injection intended to increase aquifer water levels or improve water quality), and vadose or dry wells. ASR systems commonly store freshwater in brackish or saline aquifers and are evaluated in terms of their recovery efficiency; the percentage of the injected water that can be recovered at a useable quality. Numerous modeling studies and reviews of field data have been performed to elucidate the hydrogeological controls over recovery efficiency. Poor recovery efficiency may be caused by high native groundwater salinities and high degrees of aquifer heterogeneity. Gravity drainage wells are used for stormwater management and aquifer recharge. Key design and operational issues are avoiding groundwater contamination and managing well clogging.