Groundwater Banking and Recharge (ASR and MAR)

Amid the growing uncertainty of water supply availability and increasing demand, EKI provides technical and strategic support to both public and private clients in the realm of groundwater banking and recharge projects. EKI understands that groundwater banking, managed aquifer recharge (MAR), and aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) are pivotal strategies for bolstering water resources security and resiliency. Our expertise spans a spectrum of services, including feasibility assessments, due diligence procedures, environmental site assessment (ESA), advanced modeling techniques, permitting support, and infrastructure design.

For groundwater banking, EKI works collaboratively with our clients to conduct thorough evaluations of existing water banks and conduct meticulous siting studies for potential new banking opportunities. EKI services include:

• Evaluating existing water banks by analyzing performance metrics and associated risks. This includes scrutinizing factors such as water quality, treatment costs, SGMA compliance, operational flexibility, and trends in groundwater levels and storage;
• Siting potential banking locations within designated areas of interest through comprehensive due diligence investigations and a proven screening framework that systematically identifies and assesses the most promising options;
• Preparing a comprehensive feasibility assessment of groundwater banking potential, providing a robust framework to support planning efforts, and guiding clients through key decision-making. Our proven track record with managed aquifer recharge feasibility studies include regional screening studies to site-specific hydrogeologic characterization, pilot project design and implementation, and project development; and
• Supporting clients through the permitting process and providing infrastructure planning services, including conceptual design and cost estimates for conveyance, recharge, and extraction facilities.

MAR and ASR projects deliberately replenish aquifers and store excess water when available, ensuring a reliable water supply during dry periods and unexpected demands. EKI offers comprehensive support across all stages of implementation, from initial assessments to operational execution. EKI’s team of geoscientists, modelers, and engineers specializes in guiding clients through the complexities of MAR and ASR projects by:

• Conducting recharge suitability assessments to allow clients to identify optimal sites and following up with Phase I environmental site assessments (ESA) and feasibility studies as needed to ensure environmental compliance and feasibility; and
• Providing design services for infiltration basins, injection wells, and monitoring networks, and conducting pilot studies to demonstrate the site’s capabilities and identify potential vulnerabilities and concerns.

EKI recognizes that the success of groundwater banking and recharge initiatives hinges upon a multidisciplinary approach. While hydrogeological studies form the foundation of EKI’s project designs, our expertise in integrated hydrological modeling, data science, and engineering principles optimizes our solutions and project delivery. We tailor our solutions to suit the unique needs of each project, promoting efficient water management practices while navigating regulatory frameworks seamlessly.  We pride ourselves on enhancing water security for public and private clients and on making an impact in the most vulnerable communities in California and nationwide. As your partner, EKI will help harness the power of MAR and ASR to ensure sustainable water management practices for generations to come.