Development of suitability map for managed aquifer recharge: case study, West Delta, Egypt

Abstract

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is considered an innovative method for storing water in the subsurface. In this work, multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was used to delineate potential groundwater recharge areas for MAR implementation in Western Delta using reclaimed wastewater. By employing geographical information systems (GIS) and pairwise comparison matrix (PCM), a modified approach was utilized for the development of the suitability map by capturing the interlinkages between a specified MAR technique (spreading methods) and MAR suitability mapping processes. The developed approach was created with a range of constraining and factorial considerations. Based on the findings, MAR potential recharge zones included four main suitability classes. The presence of high-suitability areas was mainly delineated in the northeast part, particularly around the left side of the Nile River valley. Areas of low suitability were located around the west-north side where the hydrological criterion seems to hinder the implementation due to the low productivity of the hydrogeologic layer. The developed methodology reflected the importance of specific determining factors (i.e., slope and depth to depth to the water table) that govern the successful implementation of infiltration basins and maximize the benefits from soil aquifer treatments effects when taken into account with other hydrogeological and socio-economic variables.