Key progress is underway for the project Implementing Innovative Approaches for Improved Water Governance, with drilling beginning at the three managed aquifer recharge (MAR) pilot sites at Mogod, Baganuur and Gurvantes. The mission will be carried out over the next five to six weeks to identify aquifers and test water quality for the baseline study. During this time, the team will be camping on-site to monitor and supervise the drillers.
MAR is the intentional recharge of groundwater which considers water quality and quantity. It can facilitate sustainable water management by contributing directly to aquifer recharge, or indirectly by reducing demand for unsustainable groundwater sources by providing short term storage and then re-extraction of water.
Despite research into recharge processes and theoretical study, there have been no on-ground MAR trials in Mongolia. These MAR pilots constitute a promising technology that can form part of a suite of actions for greater sustainability of groundwater resources in Mongolia.
The broader aims of this project are to develop policy recommendations and updates to water laws and regulations to address current issues such as surface and groundwater scarcity, pollution from industrial activity, poor wastewater treatment and sanitation, ecosystem degradation and ageing infrastructure.
In Mongolia, despite a relatively sparse population, a lack of updated water governance combined with climate change and increased industrial activities has created serious pressures on water resources. Many households rely on untreated groundwater which may be contaminated.
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