Assessment of recharge capacity potential of groundwater using comparative multi-criteria decision analysis approaches

Groundwater resources have always been some of the most valuable human settlements. Climate changes and ever-increasing water demands registered in last century led to diminishing levels groundwater reserves, as well reduced recharging potential. Therefore, order use aquifers a sustainable manner, it is required identify areas with higher replenishing The current study addresses issue generating map for identifying differently ranked potential values, Moldavian Plain region, Romania. For purpose conducting analysis, maps were created through GIS based multi-criteria Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Catastrophe Theory (CT), seven relevant, thematic, spatial layers: precipitation distribution, lithological strata, soil texture, declivity, drainage density, land distribution level tendencies. results two methods analysis are similar. Prediction differences maximum 3%, case extreme classes (very bad very good) middle deviation not greater than 0.4%. Following validation generated by that applied, was observed predictions offered CT more accurate. This aspect can be on fact main factors contribute prediction different. type workflow emphasizes necessity implementing appropriate management plans mitigating reservoir scarcity/depletion, recommending solutions future exploitation practices.