Characteristics and causes of groundwater level dynamics in the Changji oasis on the northern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains, China

Abstract

Groundwater level dynamics reflect the relationship between groundwater recharge and discharge, and changes in groundwater resources. To effectively manage and protect groundwater resources, it is necessary to analyze spatial and temporal changes in groundwater levels and the underlying reasons. Results indicate that groundwater levels in the study area have declined, particularly in the irrigation area. Specifically, from 2000 to 2020, the area with groundwater levels <10 m deep decreased by 71.41%, the area with groundwater levels within the range of 10–50 m increased by 26.19%, and the area >50 m deep increased by 167.38%. Results indicate that groundwater levels in the study area have declined, particularly in the irrigation area. Human activities, such as groundwater extraction for cropland expansion, are the primary factors contributing to declining groundwater levels in the plains. Therefore, based on the research results, we need to make efforts to develop non-traditional water resources to alleviate the scarcity of groundwater resources, further strengthen water resources monitoring and regulation, vigorously develop water-saving measures and drought-resistant crops, raise public awareness of water conservation, to ensure the rational utilization of groundwater resources.