ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: The Nile delta aquifer, consisting of sediments deposited by the most important river flowing into the Mediterranean, provides the main water supply for nine Governorates in the area. Groundwater is endangered by salt water encroachment due to lateral intrusion of present sea water and upconing of connate salt water trapped in paleodeltaic sediments. The interface between sea and groundwater with different salinity is very fragile, as a result of alternate sea level fluctuations due to climate changes over geological time. The natural water cycle and river sedimentation in the delta have been strongly affected by human actions, namely the construction of the Aswan High Dam, and pollution. Therefore, integrated surface water and groundwater resources of different salinity should be rationally managed in terms of quantity and quality for different uses to face the evergrowing demand of the increasing population in the Nile Delta, who make a living from intensive agriculture.
