ABSTRACT
Groundwater resources constitute an important component of the total water balance of Lebanon, and are especially important in the highly populated coastal zone. Increasing water demand, coupled with the near breakdown of governmental authority during the civil war, led to a lack of water management activities. This resulted in the deterioration of the groundwater quality from seawater intrusion (due to excessive pumping), and contamination with sewage and industrial wastes. Reconstruction plans currently in effect, have placed water management high on the agenda. The process involves groundwater remediation and maximization of available water resources. Artificial recharge offers a dual-purpose option for the storage of the excess surface water and improving ground water quality. This paper draws on the limited Lebanese experience in artificial recharge and on the current knowledge of the Lebanese hydrogeology, to discuss the potential of this management option.
