How is groundwater recharge defined?

Groundwater recharge is defined as the process by which water infiltrates the soil and refills underground aquifers. This process is crucial for maintaining the health of groundwater resources. When precipitation occurs, some of the water will move through the soil layers and eventually reach the saturated zone, where it contributes to the replenishment of aquifers. This infiltration process is essential for sustaining ecosystems, supporting water supply systems, and ensuring that we have access to clean drinking water.

Understanding groundwater recharge is particularly important in regions where surface water is scarce, as it highlights the significance of soil permeability, land use, and effective water management practices that can enhance or inhibit this vital process.