Managed aquifer recharge

Image of Greenfields Wetlands Salisbury managed aquifer recharge. Source City of Salisbury.

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is the intentional draining or discharging (injecting) of water directly or indirectly into a well for storage or environmental benefit. For example, in times of high rainfall and stormwater runoff, water can be stored in an aquifer to be used at a later date when the rainfall is low. The recharged water can then be extracted and used as an additional water source.

Although initial MAR investigations in South Australia can be traced back to the early 1950s, large schemes weren’t established until the early 1990s, mainly as a part of stormwater harvesting and reuse schemes. There are now over 40 MAR schemes operating across the greater Adelaide metropolitan area that have injected 48 GL of water for non-potable uses. Many organisations, such as councils and golf clubs, use MAR schemes as a way to improve their water security by providing alternative water supplies. They are able to recharge and store excess water in winter and recover it in summer when their irrigation needs are greater.

MAR schemes are regulated in a number of ways:

• Drilling a well requires a well construction permit.
• Draining domestic rainwater into an aquifer requires a drainage or discharge permit (apply for a permit and get the permit form).
• Injecting water into a well requires either an Environment Protection Authority (EPA) licence or a water affecting activity permit issued by DEW is required (see below for further information).
• Extracting water from a well requires a licence from DEW if the water resource is prescribed. Find out if this applies to you.
• Use of recycled water is regulated by the Department for Health.

For EPA MAR licensing enquiries, contact: epa.marart@sa.gov.au

For DEW MAR licensing and permit enquiries, contact: Water Licensing team DEWWaterLicensing@sa.gov.au

For further information or assistance contact us on 8463 6063 or the EPA on 8204 2064