Participatory approach in Aquifer Storage and Recovery management in Arid zones, does it work?

Aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) with treated wastewater, is considered as an effective solution for a critical aquifer decline due to groundwater overexploitation. In ASR operational step and after the aquifer storage phase, the problem is the new groundwater right for stakeholders and specifically farmers. In a 2-year study, the potential of a participatory approach for solving this problem was investigated and applied in Fashafoeyeh aquifer in southern Tehran Province. This aquifer faces a critical situation of groundwater from point of view of quantitative and qualitative aspects. Firstly, five indicators were considered including agricultural efficiency, water resource efficiency, water governance, local participation, and economic factors. Then 23 farmers and agricultural landowners were selected based on age, education, and gender. A questionnaire was designed, surveyed, and filled out after interviewing them in several field trips to the site. The results of data analysis showed that 96% of farmers and landowners were highly motivated in the implementation of the participatory approach in ASR management. Moreover, 91% showed a high desire to decrease the groundwater withdrawal from wells. A high percentage of stakeholders had a tendency to participate in some aspects of ASR system. In the meantime, many farmers had a negative viewpoint about government supports. The results illustrate a correlation between agriculture efficiency with participation in the government's projects and implementation. Moreover, a correlation exists between water management in the field and participation in government's projects as well as local participatory. This research emphasises on proper planning through face-to-face dialogue with farmers and landowners. In this regard, they collaborate in a participatory approach, as well as a technical and social team to implement the aquifer storage and recovery management.