Ground Water as a Cornerstone of the Water Supply in Switzerland.

Abstract

Ground water contributes 83% toward Switzerland's water supply which shows its great importance. Recharge influences to a large extent the chemical and physical composition of ground water. The use of flow meters to determine equalizing flows and permeabilities of aquifers is an essential means of modern ground water investigation. To get a sufficiently adequate balance of ground water resources, numerical data on infiltration and exfiltration are a prerequisite. For this purpose, the so-called deep-stick has proved useful. Because of the rising demand for ground water, as well as to equalize its quality and in order to optimize the need of energy, an increasing use of artificial recharge and underground storage is required. Finally, an example of ground water contamination and its natural rehabilitation is given.