How humans bend the hydrograph: experiences in mitigating drought through small-scale managed aquifer recharge
Abstract
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.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Water Governance and Infrastructure
Groundwater and Isotope Geochemistry
Water management and technologies
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal of Water Resources Development
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 42
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 313–344
- Publication date
- 23 February 2026
- Language
- EN