Groundwater Recharge Systems to Mitigate the Impact from Construction Dewatering

Abstract

Groundwater depletion is a global issue with numerous localities impacted by abstraction rates exceeding recharge. This can have major local and regional impacts, including the reduction of baseflow to surface water features, subsidence and deterioration of water quality. Construction dewatering operations are usually temporary in nature; however, the impacts of dewatering can be just as severe as more permanent operations. This is especially pertinent when abstracting from groundwater resources that are already strained, or when abstractions are proximal to natural or manmade `sensitive' sites. Groundwater recharge systems are increasingly being designed and utilised in construction dewatering operations. When feasible, these systems have the potential to reduce the net abstraction and zone of influence of the dewatering operation. This paper presents the key concepts, considerations, advantages and disadvantages of groundwater recharge systems, together with relevant recent case studies.