Means of Mobilization and Protection of Water Resources in Algeria

Abstract

Increasing demand for water, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions of the world, has shown that the extended groundwater reservoirs are invaluable for water supply, and storage by recharge becomes essential. In many areas of the world, aquifers that supply drinking-water are being used faster than they recharge. The overexploitation of groundwater of Sebaou River (Algeria) for the production of drinking-water and for irrigation, in addition to the lack of aquifer recharge sites, induced lowering of the level of the water table during the recent years. Owing to untreated storm water and wastewater discharged from different sources, Sebaou River undergoes a significant degradation along its course and becomes a true dump for the domestic and industrial wastes. The artificial recharge of the aquifer is an adequate means of storing water and protecting the local environment. It also avoids considerable water loss by evaporation and silting and makes the drinking-water of better quality. Artificial recharge as a means to boost the natural supply of groundwater aquifers is becoming increasingly important in groundwater management. Because the chemical and microbial quality of groundwater is linked to the events occurring above the aquifer, it is imperative to assess the health risks associated with any recharge option. This paper discusses the potential of water resources in Algeria and the integrated approach to groundwater management. A numerical study dedicated to the potential of aquifer recharge from Sebaou River, and based on mathematical modeling of surface and groundwater flows, is presented. The results show the suitability of artificial recharge and the effects on the water table level and the reorientation of the flow direction, avoiding marine intrusion.