Pilot studies and reflections on deep groundwater recharge and restoration in North China

Consultation Group for Comprehensive Management of Groundwater Overdraft in North China,Science and Technology Committee,Ministry of Water Resources

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1000-1123.2025.15.001

Abstract：Overdraft of confined deep groundwater remains a serious issue in North China,where natural recovery is difficult due to limited recharge and slow renewal of deep aquifers.This has led to the long-term existence of groundwater depression cones,further triggering a series of ecological damages and geological hazards such as ground subsidence and seawater intrusion,exerting ongoing impacts on regional production,livelihoods,and ecological security.To address the groundwater depletion caused by long-term overdraft,a coordinated"point-line-area"approach and a comprehensive governance and restoration model integrating"suppression,recharge,and reinjection"have been proposed.This paper introduces the conditions and progress of recharge experiments conducted at four established pilot sites,and summarizes the findings and outcomes of a series of thematic studies carried out in conjunction with these recharge trials.Existing challenges of the pilot projects are identified,including short experimental durations,insufficient research,unoptimized water sources,and the need for improved test site conditions.In response,several targeted recommendations are proposed:extending the duration and depth of experimental studies,optimizing recharge areas and water sources,advancing research on anti-blocking and permeability-enhancement technologies,strengthening scientific and technical support,evaluating recharge effectiveness,improving research platform infrastructure,and increasing dedicated financial support,aiming to provide experiences for systematic recharge and restoration of deep groundwater and ensure sustainable utilization of groundwater resources.