Site Selection and Determination of the Most Suitable Artificial Recharge Method in the Minab Plain Based on AHP Method

The drop in water level in the Minab aquifer, Hormozgan, Iran has caused its level to be lower than the sea level, and virtually the advent of salt water into the aquifer. Meanwhile, subcidence of the earth level is observed within the Minab Plain. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate and present solutions for improving aquifer status. In this study, a suitable location for artificial recharge and a suitable method for Minab aquifer was investigated based on the information of groundwater level data, pumping test, geological map, water resources data, as well as field observations. For this purpose, first information layers of seven parameters (including thickness of alluvium, transmissivity of the aquifer, the depth of groundwater levels, topography, distance from the river, lithology of the earth and the density of underground water resources) were created in GIS software. Then, through AHP method, weight of each layer was determined with the help of engineering judgment and paired comparison method. Finally, the Minab aquifer was divided into three sections: good, moderate, and weak potential. Subsequently, a number of old gravel pit were identified in the Minab River proposed for artificial recharge purposes by studying the land use status and conducting various field studies, especially in high potential areas. In conclusion, only 6% of the aquifer area was found to be suitable for artificial recharging.