Mapping Suitability for Managed Aquifer Recharge in the Albuquerque Basin

Abstract

BACKGROUNDManaged aquifer recharge is a planning and engineering process that seeks to replenish and store groundwater in aquifers for future use. This artificial recharge is becoming increasingly important in the desert southwest, including the Albuquerque area. Determining exactly where this can be done-where water can be readily absorbed and stored for future use-is largely dependent on the underlying geology of that location.The New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, the state's geological survey, working with the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority (ABCWUA), has developed comprehensive maps showing the locations most suitable for managed aquifer recharge projects.