Optimization of withdrawals from an aquifer: a case study of Kairouan (Tunisia)

Abstract

In the Kairouan plain (Central Tunisia) which is characterized by a semi-arid climate, the combination of water use growth and recharge depletion due to dam construction seems to be responsible for the important drop observed in the watertable levels. In order to take account of the two competing objectives of pumping water, viz., for agriculture development and water conservation for the future, two optimization models have been used to define operating decisions regarding pumping in aquifers. Results show that the two objectives are in competition since a decrease in the range of storage depletion fluctuation implies an increase in energy costs.

Keywords:

• optimization models
• Kairouan aquifers
• storage depletion
• total drawdown
• withdrawals
• Tunisia

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to Mr R. Beji and M. Limam (CRDA of Kairouan, Tunisia) for assistance with defining the management schemes. This work was partially supported by the Tunisian–Portugese Scientific Cooperation in the period 2001–2003.