Survey of consequences of water table decline in Zarand plain and provision management remedies

The purpose of this study was to assess the quantity and quality of groundwater in Zarand plain by analyzing groundwater table drop and thus to provide a strategy or management options to remedy the situation. Firstly, all relevant data including meteorological, hydrological, hydrogeological, geological and geographical data were collected and evaluated. Then, water table decline rate, excess discharge, as well as chemical changes of aquifers were determined and their impacts on assessed. Then the status of aquifers in the coming 10 years was determined assuming the past and present trends will be continuing in the future. The results of the this research indicated that over-pumping had led to several undesirable consequences and if the situation continues in the future, it will have both environmental impacts and economic constraints as well as social unrest will ensue. Finally, recommendations were suggested to overcome the problems.