Spatial and temporal variation of natural recharge in the semi-arid valley of Aguascalientes, Mexico

The investigation involves a temporal and spatial analysis to characterize recharge in the Aguascalientes valley in central Mexico. The results are based on a two-part methodological strategy using a geospatial and numerical analysis. Results from the geospatial analysis are based on the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) method, which involves developing a zoning map that qualifies the conditions for groundwater recharge in the valley. In addition, one-dimensional numerical modeling based on the van Genuchten equation was applied for various soil column configurations to estimate the transit time of recharge through the vadose zone. The analysis was performed over a 20-year period from 1995 to 2015. The results of the geospatial analysis indicate that the optimal area for groundwater recharge is the lower zone of the valley, particularly the portion influenced by surface discontinuities. The shortest estimated period of recharge for water to pass through the vadose zone is approximately 4.25 years.