Managed aquifer recharge in karstic systems:Site suitability mapping by coupling multi-criteria decision analysis with remote sensing and hydrologic modeling

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) offers a promising strategic management alternative for water storage and subsequent recovery to alleviate shortage protect coastal aquifers from saltwater intrusion. Selecting potentially suitable sites remains challenging, particularly in heterogeneous karst systems. In this study, MAR site suitability is examined using new geospatial approach that accounts rechargeability properties, availability, economic-environmental attractiveness. For purpose, multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA), supported by pairwise comparisons, with an intrinsic index coupled raster-based hydrologic model was forced remotely-sensed precipitation, temperature, land use data. The successfully used define exclusionary zones identify high potential were independently collocated hydrogeological indicators ascertaining its mapping systems prevailing karstic aquifers.