The Assessment of Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Interventions
The International Association for Human Values (IAHV), a sister organization of the Art of Living (AOL) Foundation, undertook a program to rejuvenate the Kumudavathi river by implementing managed aquifer recharge (MAR). This program included several interventions aimed at:
- Increasing soil moisture
- Recharging the phreatic aquifer
- Injecting into semi-confined aquifers
To assess the impact of MAR, comprehensive baseline information was developed for the mini watersheds identified by IAHV. The study of MAR activities in the Kumudavathi Basins took into consideration the following factors:
- Site Suitability: This was focused on the intended purpose of augmenting groundwater recharge and increasing soil moisture.
- Availability of Water: To determine the feasibility of recharge, an average runoff volume of 7.32 MCM was calculated. An analysis of land use changes, rainfall patterns across various micro-watersheds, and the runoff potential at injection wells indicated a viable source for MAR.
- Economic Viability and Community Involvement: The study examined community participation and the selection of land for MAR activities. Since the interventions were carried out on common land, specifically stream beds, conflicts between the community and other stakeholders were avoided. As a result, MAR was successful.
