Factors to predict success of ASR systems

Frederick Bloetscher Frederick Bloetscher,Sam Ratick Sam Ratick,Chi Ho Sham Chi Ho Sham

doi:10.30574/gjeta.2020.5.2.0081

Frederick Bloetscher Frederick Bloetscher, Sam Ratick Sam Ratick + Show 1 more

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https://doi.org/10.30574/gjeta.2020.5.2.0081

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Abstract

A 2019 inventory of ASR projects indicates that there are a total of 233 ASR sites in the US. Of this number, 127 had sufficient information and sufficient longevity to evaluate their success. A logistic model was run using the reduced variable set, and (1) Injection Capacity, (2) Withdrawal Capacity, and (3) Ratio of Planned Pumping In/Out had slight positive effects on the odds of success; (4) Estimated start date and (5) Well Depth did not have any effect on the odds of success. All other variables reduced the odds of ASR success (the uses for the water, limestone and carbonate formations). The area’s geological formation may be the most useful parameter to predict future ASR success, but further study is required. Data on well construction is not indicative of success because wells construction accounts for the subsurface formations. Information on water quality in the formation and confinement layers was missing for many ASR sites, but both are likely to have predictive value for ASR project success.

Highlights

Around the world, treated or treatable water is pumped below ground and stored to preserve current water resources, prepare for future droughts, protect water resources, recharge wellfields, and store water for use at a later time to sustain development (AWWA, 2015)
Data on well construction is not indicative of success because wells construction accounts for the subsurface formations
Information on water quality in the formation and confinement layers was missing for many ASR sites, but both are likely to have predictive value for ASR project success

Summary

Introduction

Around the world, treated or treatable water is pumped below ground and stored to preserve current water resources, prepare for future droughts, protect water resources, recharge wellfields, and store water for use at a later time to sustain development (AWWA, 2015). By leveraging unused treatment plant capacity to treat excess or available water and store it in an aquifer for later withdrawal, ASR programs can augment future water supplies which can help utilities avoid the costs required to build in extra water treatment capacity (AWWA, 2014, 2015, Bloetscher et al 2014, 2015). In 2013, a dataset on ASR systems in the United States was collected from USEPA, state environmental agencies, on line, peer reviewed and conference literature and through telephone interviews with specific water utilities. This effort yielded 204 sites that included over 700 wells. In the fall of Corresponding author: Frederick Bloetscher Florida Atlantic University.Boca Raton, FL 33431

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