Effect of Artificial (Pond) Recharge on the Salinity and Groundwater Level in Al-Dibdibba Aquifer in Iraq Using Treated Wastewater

Groundwater is one of the most important water resources in Iraq, so efficient management storage, recharge, and consumption rates required, for maintaining sustainability groundwater supplies. Some valuable methods ensuring long-term aquifers are those that provide artificial recharge. This study was conducted to determine effect recharge on levels quality Iraq’s Dibdibba unconfined aquifer, utilizing modeling system software (GMS). Reclaimed (tertiary treatment) from Kerbala’s central wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) used as raw aquifer. The effects this were determined using built-up flow (MODFLOW) dissolved transport (MT3DMS) simulation models. Model calibration validation implemented based monitoring data 2016 2017. model matched observed elevations at R2 = 0.96 steady state 0.92 transient simulations. After 3D numerical calibrated validated, two scenarios explored daily production 5000 10,000 m3/d Karbala’s WWTP. results indicated pumping treated through pond would increase by more than 20 cm 78.2 110 km2 m3/day, respectively. More 40 be added (reclaimed) agricultural areas region a result use pond. also improved, TDS decreased 55%, down 1900 ppm, EC 68%, 1500 µ.S/cm. findings can assist decision-makers developing strategies reduce scarcity adapt climate change.