Subsurface dams do not enhance groundwater recharge, but create additional storage by stopping groundwater flow upstream of constructed impermeable barriers. Subsurface dams require impermeable bedrock at a depth of a few meters.
Source water |
Pre-treatment |
Recharge |
Subsurface |
Recovery |
Post-treatment |
End-use |
Groundwater |
None |
None |
Storage |
Hand pumps, (dug-) wells |
Depending on end-use |
Drinking water |