Aquifer Storage and Recovery

Definition

Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) is a water management practice that involves the injection of surplus water into an aquifer for later extraction and use during times of water scarcity. This technique allows for the efficient storage of water in underground formations, making use of the aquifer's natural capacity to hold water while also maintaining the quality of the stored water. By balancing supply and demand, ASR can help sustain groundwater levels and improve overall water resource management.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ASR systems can utilize treated wastewater, stormwater, or excess surface water, effectively recycling resources while reducing surface runoff.
2. The effectiveness of ASR depends on the geological properties of the aquifer, including its porosity and permeability, which influence how much water can be stored.
3. Monitoring water quality is essential during both injection and extraction processes to prevent contamination and ensure safe usage.
4. ASR helps mitigate the effects of drought by providing a reliable backup water supply that can be tapped during periods of low rainfall.
5. Successful ASR projects often require collaboration between multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, water utilities, and local communities.

Review Questions

• How does aquifer storage and recovery contribute to sustainable groundwater management?
  • Aquifer storage and recovery contributes to sustainable groundwater management by allowing for the strategic storage of surplus water during wet periods for use in dry periods. This practice helps maintain groundwater levels, reduces dependency on surface water sources, and mitigates the impacts of drought. Additionally, it improves overall water resource efficiency by recycling water that might otherwise be lost as runoff.
• Evaluate the challenges associated with implementing aquifer storage and recovery systems in urban environments.
  • Implementing aquifer storage and recovery systems in urban environments presents several challenges. These include ensuring sufficient space for infrastructure installation, addressing potential contamination risks from urban runoff or improper treatment of stored water, and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. Community acceptance can also be a hurdle as residents may have concerns about water quality or potential impacts on local ecosystems.
• Assess the impact of aquifer storage and recovery on regional water availability and quality in the context of climate change.
  • Aquifer storage and recovery has significant potential to enhance regional water availability in the face of climate change by providing a buffer against fluctuating precipitation patterns. As droughts become more frequent and severe due to climate change, ASR can serve as a reliable source of stored water for communities. However, careful management is essential to maintain water quality during storage and extraction processes, as increased extreme weather events could lead to contamination risks. Thus, balancing these aspects will be crucial for maximizing the benefits of ASR under changing climate conditions.

Related terms

Aquifer: A geological formation that can store and transmit significant amounts of groundwater, providing a crucial source of fresh water.

Recharge: The process through which water is added to an aquifer, typically through natural precipitation or human-induced methods like ASR.

Groundwater Management: The practice of managing the use, quality, and sustainability of groundwater resources to ensure long-term availability for various purposes.