Groundwater Harvest and Its Implications
Groundwater harvest is the process of collecting and using groundwater, often a necessary activity in areas with limited fresh water supply. Despite the possibility of groundwater harvest as a natural resource, the implications of groundwater harvest on overall water resources are often overlooked and can lead to serious environmental and social issues. This essay will explore the implcations of groundwater harvest from three different perspectives: the effects on regional hydrology, the risks posed to water quality, and the potential for socioeconomic issues.
To begin, the regional hydrology of an area is profoundly affected by groundwater harvest due to the process of subsidence (or land-surface lowering). Subsidence occurs when water is pumped from deep or wide underground stores to the Earths surface due to the physical pressure of the water column itself. This is worsened further in areas of already low water tables, as the subsidence inhibits an areas ability to recharge groundwater aquifers. Subsidence is a threat not only to natural resources, but also to infrastructure, as roads, bridges, and buildings can be damaged due to the uneven landscape it creates. In addition to this, the overall water cycle, which includes groundwater and surface land water, can be disrupted due to the decrease in overall water pressure and levels.
The second important perspective to consider is the risks posed to water quality by groundwater harvest. Oxygen levels in a groundwater aquifer are naturally very low, which allows pollutants and chemicals to remain in the same area, often for extended periods of time. Through groundwater pumping, some of the pollutants or chemicals can be released into the surface land water and air, posing significant health risks for the general population. Additionally, the impact of lower water levels on water quality can be amplified in areas with naturally poor water quality such as those that exist in agricultural and urban areas.
Finally, socioeconomic implications of groundwater harvest should also be considered. The necessity of additional equipment to harvest deep water sources, as well as electric and gas-powered pumps to bring water to the surface, can put a financial strain on individuals and businesses, often reducing the amount of money available for other necessary expenses. In some cases, the cost of groundwater harvesting can be a burden to the local economy, making it difficult for smaller businesses to stay afloat. There can also be cultural and religious implications to groundwater harvest, as many indigenous populations view underground aquifers as spiritual teachings or sacred energy hubs.
In summary, there are many implications to groundwater harvest that should be taken into account when considering the process. Although it is necessary in some circumstances, the regional hydrology, water quality, and socioeconomic effects of groundwater harvest must be weighed equally with its potential benefits. Ultimately, groundwater harvest must be approached with a sense of caution and respect for the environment and for the individuals or companies who rely on its continued supply.
