Possibilities for artificial recharge in Crestatx aquifer (Mallorca) using water surpluses from Ufanes de Gabellí springs

Abstract

In this paper we show an study about the possibilities of artificially recharge the Crestatx aquifer, in Majorca, using water surpluses from Ufanes de Gabellí springs. These springs are typically karstic, characterized by a very quick response to intense precipitation. Water flows drained are very high in very short time periods. The discharge pattern is very variable, depending on the rainfall pattern, but we can say that, as an average, there are 6 or 7 drainage episodes per year. Recorded water flows have been up to 30 m3/s. Drained water is driven to the sea, a few kilometers downstream, by the Torrente de San Miguel. This makes very difficult to exploit the springs water resources, even more by the fact of in the river mouth there is a large wetland named Albufera de Alcudia, which is protected by the law. Nevertheless there is a possibility to use a part of the surpluses to make the artificial recharge of Crestatx aquifer. In this paper, the first results of the artificial recharge feasibility study are shown, and too the first design of the future artificial recharge plant.