Surface-Spreading AAR Systems (Non-basin)

Abstract

Infiltration basins are a widely used surface-spreading method for infiltrating stormwater, surface water, and reclaimed water. A variety of other types of surface-spreading methods are also used for managed aquifer recharge, which vary depending upon whether they occur in an unmodified channel, modified channel, or on off-channel land surfaces (e.g., adjacent flood plains, farm fields, and sand dunes). Channel modifications include large dams, check dams, sand dams, and temporary in-channel levee systems. Irrigation return flows can be an important source recharge in spate irrigation systems, in which fields are intentionally flooded, and during irrigated agriculture in general. Although surface-spreading MAR systems contribute to increased recharge, more and higher quality data are needed on the efficiency of systems (i.e., fraction of applied water that actually reaches the water table) and the fate of the recharged water (amount of water that becomes available for beneficial use). Management of clogging remains an important operational concern.