3Introduction3

In response to increasing water-related problems in Israel and the Middle East, and in view of recent peace talks addressing water issues in the region and the development of existing and new water resources, The ZIWR will create a new multi-disciplinary laboratory for investigating flow and transport in groundwater.

Groundwater reservoirs are the most appropriate and efficient storage facilities for natural and artificial recharge in arid environments. However, desert aquifers are sensitive to any interference, such as water withdrawal and artificial recharge. Maintaining groundwater quality and quantity is the main task of groundwater hydrologists and water engineers.

The study of aquifer physical parameters and chemical properties relies on intensive laboratory and field tests and physical modeling. Pilot plants of artificial aquifers are essential for scaling analyses leading to aquifer modeling on a real scale. This is a necessary step toward the establishment of policy for sustainable groundwater exploitation and safe economic management schemes.

The mission of the AAL is to generate, develop, train and disseminate knowledge, techniques and groundwater technologies among young scientists, engineers and technicians in the Middle East. It will allow testing of new technologies aimed at providing water in quantities and qualities that satisfy the needs and aspirations of the people of the region.

The AAL will attract researchers from the technological, environmental, and natural sciences (such as hydrology, hydrochemistry, biology, water engineering, water management and water economics) to conduct multi- and inter-disciplinary research.

Objectives of the Artificial Aquifer Laboratory

• To construct a pilot plant for studying advanced physical, hydro-chemical and biological processes in various types of aquifers, and to demonstrate methods and technologies for improving and maintaining groundwater quality.
• To develop the most efficient groundwater exploitation technology.
• To establish research, training and demonstration facilities for groundwater treatment and desalination.
• To test hydrological schemes for management of water resources in arid and semi-arid basins

The AAL will promote theoretical and applied research programs, as well as developing and activating tools for dissemination and implementation of research results. The dissemination will be effected by an academic graduate training program, aimed at Israeli and foreign students, and targeting arid countries affected by desertification, which is associated with deterioration of soil and water quality.