Site-specific condition evaluation for managed aquifer recharge (MAR) site selection in granitic aquifers, Ghana

Abstract

Water has prominence over all the usable natural resources to humankind due to its very significance to human life. Approximately, 70% of Ghana's populace relies on groundwater exploitation for freshwater consumption. Managed aquifer recharge is capable of sustaining water resources for all livelihood activities. Underperformance of MAR systems is often due to site-specific hydrogeological conditions turning out to be less favorable than anticipated. This study evaluates the site-specific conditions for MAR sites identification in granitic aquifers, integrating in situ hydrogeological factors and GIS-MCDA. One hundred and twenty-one datasets from different boreholes comprising hydro geophysics, borehole drilling and pump test reports were used. The constraint mapping results indicate 92% suitable for MAR application within the study area, implying available enormous bare lands for flooding recharge technique. The suitability analysis discloses that 48 and 51% of the studied area fall within very high and high suitable zones, respectively, showing convincing and great potential to support infiltration ponds for MAR technology application. The valuable information provided through this study can serve as a guide for MAR implementation and for sustainable groundwater resources management within the Upper East region of Ghana.