Small-scale managed aquifer recharge (s-MAR) can help replenish depleted aquifers, extend groundwater availability during dry seasons and drought, and reduce flooding. Whether s-MAR brings these benefits not only depends on hydrogeological conditions and technical design, but also on how interventions align with social norms, governance structures and local priorities. Drawing on s-MAR experiences in Ethiopia, India and Mexico, we apply a critical sociohydrological lens to examine how interactions between water, people and climate shape hydrological outcomes. We highlight implications for sociohydrology and improving the planning, participation and long-term governance of s-MAR interventions.
Basel et al. (2026) studied this question.