Editor’s choice
Researchers linked SEI’s Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) software with an optimization model to evaluate how human-induced aquifer recharge in Central California can be a sustainable strategy for water banking under various policy and climate scenarios. The study, published in the journal Water Resources Research, seeks to determine the optimal institutional arrangements for the region’s environment and economy during a time of intensifying drought.
Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is an intentional human effort to supplement the natural replenishment of groundwater aquifers by restoring storage levels where they are depleted by drought. It is intended to mitigate the effects of climate uncertainty on irrigated agriculture.
This study analyses how MAR management might affect the Kings Groundwater Basin in California using three different policy scenarios and three separate climate scenarios for each policy. SEI’s flagship water modelling software, WEAP, was used to simulate the region’s hydrology and water management decisions while applying operating rules and constraints to water allocation decisions.
The authors’ research indicates that intentional aquifer recharge can greatly benefit the Kings Groundwater Basin, possibly growing average groundwater levels by 20% during a 20-year period.
Project / SEI researchers work throughout California to model complex water systems and explore sustainable management options.
Feature / SEI experts break down complex topics, from water management in California to how fires affect Bolivia's water balance, in this podcast series.
Feature / SEI Senior Scientist Chuck A. Young explains why California saw severe water shortages this year and how better forecasting can help alleviate those challenges.
Feature / SEI's flagship water modelling tool helped a San Jose-area water district identify an opportunity to help protected steelhead in the wake of dam construction.
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