Evaluation of the applicability of simulation tools for conjunctive water management with a focus on induced groundwater recharge

Water availability in sufficient quantity and quality is increasingly challenging in countries with limited water resources, such as Mexico. The present work takes as a case study the Río Grande in the Morelia Basin (Michoacán), widely studied in the functioning of its surface hydrology and with less detail in the groundwater. A review of potential sites for the implementation of induced recharge zones is presented, considering different methods, including the use of excess rainfall peaks, their conduction and temporary storage in infiltration ponds, the estimation of induced recharge volumes that micro-basins, irrigation returns and treated wastewater can capture. All induced recharge options are evaluated in a pre-existing conjunctive water management tool, and the improvement in water availability conditions in the water system of the study basin is discussed. A base scenario and induced recharge proposals are evaluated by quantifying the costs associated with their implementation.