GIS/RS based investigation and design of a managed aquifer recharge system in Lyantonde district.

Abstract

Survival and ecological development on earth depends on water as an essential natural resource. All countries especially arid and semi- arid regions, face ground and surface water problems which include; ground and surface water challenges, inadequate rainfall, water pollution, declining agricultural production, and climatic change issues. Water-scarcity areas can be classified into; high need areas, water-scarce areas, and high potential areas. Physical water scarcity is experienced in water-scarce areas, water logging and salinity problems are found in high potential areas, and water scarcity with respect to economic, financial, and skilled human resources are found in high need areas. Water-scarce regions lack adequate clean water to meet human drinking water and sanitation needs. This impacts human health, productivity, the environment, and ecosystems. Groundwater development in Uganda has been going on since the 1930s through construction of deep boreholes, shallow wells and protected springs. However, some regions in Uganda which includes the study area (Lyantonde district) have a low groundwater recharge as low as 75mm per year of rainfall received. This research applied geographical information system, remote sensing, Spatial Multi Criteria Evaluation and AUTOCAD tools for informed decision making in the siting of the suitable recharge areas and design of Managed Aquifer Recharge Facilities. Relevant thematic layers were prepared, weights assigned to them and calculations based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process and followed by the weight overlay analysis to ascertain the suitability of the area for intended purpose. Conclusively, the NRCS-SCS method was implemented to calculate the Runoff which would be the source of water for Recharge and acted as a basis for designing different components of the MAR facility. Keywords Groundwater, surface water, Recharge, Managed aquifer Recharge, Geographical information systems, Remote sensing, curve number, Analytical Hierarchy Process, National Resources Conservation service, USDA, Runoff