Managed aquifer recharge (MAR)

MAR is the purposeful recharge of water to aquifers for subsequent recovery and environmental benefit. Within the context of urban environment, MAR covers the injection and infiltration of captured stormwater ﾖ as such, it is linked to SuDS measures such as rainwater harvesting and infiltration techniques, but worth differentiating as a case where the primary purpose is to increase recharge to aquifers in addition to attenuating surface runoff,Mechanisms used to undertake the recharge should be highlighted. In this respect one can envisage:(i) surface structures to facilitate/augment recharge (such as soakways and infiltration basins);(ii) subsurface indirect recharge - artificial recharge is undertaken through wells drilled within the unsaturated zone;(iii) subsurface direct recharge - artificial recharge is undertaken through wells reaching the saturated zone.The regulatory approach to be adopted for each of the above three mechanisms could differ considerably, due to the fact that the level of natural protection to groundwater is vastly different for each of the mechanisms. - Based on Stella definitions, adapted by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission