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Enhanced Aquifer Recharge of Stormwater in the United States: State of the Science Review (Final Report)
EPA announced the availability of the final report, Enhanced Aquifer Recharge of Stormwater in the United States: State of the Science Review.
Citation:
U.S. EPA. Enhanced Aquifer Recharge of Stormwater in the United States: State of the Science Review (Final Report). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-21/037F, 2021.
Impact/Purpose:
EPA scientists and their collaborators have conducted a technical literature review and synthesis of current state-of-the-science of information leading to best practices for enhanced aquifer recharge (EAR) using stormwater. The report examines the factors that influence the performance of EAR systems, and can help to inform recommendations for safe, effective EAR using stormwater in different development and hydrogeologic settings.
Description:
EPA is announcing the availability of this final report prepared by the Safe and Sustainable Water Resources (SSWR) Research Program, located within the Office of Research and Development, with support from Eastern Research Group (ERG). This report is a summary and synthesis of scientific and technical literature on enhanced aquifer recharge (EAR) using stormwater. It is based on a search and screening of published literature conducted during summer and fall of 2020. The goal is to summarize the current state-of-the-science of information leading to best practices for EAR using stormwater. Topics addressed include factors affecting recharge volumes, risks (particularly of water quality degradation), what current science suggests about best practices, and knowledge gaps that, if filled, will help inform recommendations for safe, effective EAR using stormwater. The report is technical and does not address policy or regulatory issues.
The intended audiences for this report are local and state planners, managers and engineers engaged in the development and implementation of strategies for enhanced aquifer recharge of stormwater; or anyone charged with developing and implementing stormwater, water reuse, urban resilience or sustainability related policies and practices that include consideration of enhanced aquifer recharge of stormwater.