Decision Support System for Sustainable Exploitation of the Eocene Aquifer in the West Bank, Palestine

Groundwater is a crucial resource for water supply and irrigation in many parts of the world, especially Middle East. The Eocene aquifer, located northern part West Bank, Palestine, threatened by unsustainable groundwater abstractions on-ground pollution. Analysis management this aquifer are challenging because limited data availability. This research contributes to long-term sustainability model-based design future abstraction strategies considered within an uncertainty analysis framework. methodology employed started with development single-layer steady-state MODFLOW model area, followed parameters using Monte Carlo simulations. same was afterwards coupled Successive Linear Programming (SLP) optimization algorithm, implemented Management tool (GWM) United States Geological Survey (USGS). purpose deriving five optimal strategies, each aiming maximize abstraction, subject different constraints regarding depletion. Given parameters, sensitivity reliability these were then tested. Sensitivity checked two performing re-optimization values uncertain (one at time). Reliability tested analyzing extent constraints’ violation strategy when varying Finally, used determining capture zones wells land-use zones, associated estimates nitrogen loading. developed deployed web-based decision support application (named Decision Support System—GDSS), together other relevant information. Users can analyze results terms level variations total balance results, test consequences parameters. Capture loading also presented. Results show that critical recharge, hydraulic conductivity, conductance key boundary condition locations. Optimal indicate increase could be between 5% 20% from current (estimated about 56 × 106 m3/year, which 74% estimated annual recharge). however, impacting variable degrees. Recharge conductivity most while impacted proposed given (number, locations, rates new wells). main novelty contribution combining modelling, analysis, techniques comprehensive system area characterized