Estimation of natural groundwater recharge in Qatar using GIS

Abstract

Qatar is an arid country with limited water resources. With no surface water and an average annual rainfall of 80 mm per year, Qatar relies on desalination to meet the increasing water demand. As a result of groundwater overexploitation, the water table has dramatically dropped to unprecedented levels and salinity increased, in addition to other adverse environmental impacts. In the light of Qatar's 2030 National Vision, three grand challenges facing the future of Qatar were identified. One of three main grand challenges is the artificial recharge of groundwater. To understand the water budget and to better manage the precious groundwater resources, it is important to estimate the natural groundwater recharge and its mechanism. This study is based on historical groundwater level data in combination with topography data and hydraulic parameters to estimate the amount and spatial distribution of natural groundwater recharge. With the help of Geographical Information System (GIS), maps of topography and contour maps of groundwater level and rainfall were prepared. Watershed modelling was done to identify areas of surface water accumulation were recharge is likely to occur. A good match was found between watershed modelling results and historical groundwater data. Results show groundwater recharge occurs in three areas: two in the northern part of the country and two in the south. In general, the majority of recharge area occurs in the northern part of the country.