Feasibility Study on Managed Aquifer Recharge with Reclaimed Water in Xinjiang: A Case Study of Urumqi

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) with reclaimed water, a frontier field of recycled water utilization, is an effective way to solve the problems of water scarcity, groundwater overexploitation, low reutilization rate of water and serious water pollution. With case study in Urumqi City, the advantages and feasibility of MAR with reclaimed water in arid-area cities were discussed based on an analysis of the status of water supply and demand, wastewater reuse and water environment, as well as of the conditions of aquifer space and engineering site. Some key issues required to research on MAR with reclaimed water were put forward, aiming at the special geographical and climatic characteristics of arid areas. It was proposed that researches and practices on MAR with reclaimed water should be engaged in Xinjiang so as to promote safe utilization of reclaimed water and gain more environmental, economic and social benefits.