Optimal Utilization of the Groundwater Resource

A basic rule of economic geology states that an ore deposit should always be exploited so that its highest potential value is harvested. This rule is applicable for groundwater—the many different qualities and modes of emergence call for careful marketing evaluation and rational planning of the exploitation of this basic commodity. 

Groundwater is used for a large number of different purposes, and each consumer has a specific minimum quality demand. Yet water is often supplied with a higher quality than needed, for example, to certain types of industry or agriculture. If the price of water is set according to its quality, some consumers may prefer lower-quality water, relieving the pressure on the high-quality resource. This policy implementation is based on hydrochemical expertise. 

Cold and warm springs, oases, waterfalls, and wetlands are a few examples of groundwater-fed assets of nature. In the hasty drive to exploit groundwater, these presents of nature are often destroyed. However, these features should be protected and preserved as remnants of the unspoiled systems of the earth. Besides their aesthetic merit, these assets have a high economic potential, in the frame of national parks, recreation areas, or central attractions in resorts. Spotting the best candidates for conservation and securing their preservation are in the realm of the hydrochemists. 

Marcel Dekker, Inc. 270 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10016 

Pressurized stagnant aquifers with good-quality water should be preserved for times of need severe droughts, large-scale pollution accidents, or nuclear catastrophes. In times of crises, a few weeks may pass before it is clear which of the ordinary wells are contaminated. In this critical period stagnant aquifers can supply pollution-free water. Hence, selected high-quality pressurized aquifers should be drilled and equipped for emergency water extraction. 

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