Date of Award

3-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Engineering Management

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

Eric G. Mbonimpa, PhD

Abstract

Water stress is becoming an increasing global issue, with 4 billion people (50% of the world’s population) experiencing water stress at least one month per year. By 2050, 60% of the world’s population and $70 trillion USD in global gross domestic product will be affected. This research analyzes 78 CONUS USAF installations to determine location-specific water stress and feasible Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) solutions. Although thousands of MAR projects have been implemented globally, active-duty USAF installations have yet to contribute to solving this growing issue. Important factors such as required subsurface conditions, physical limitations, design, cost, and regulatory constraints are thoroughly examined. The study characterizes the intricacies of constructing and operating aquifer recharge projects in depth with a focus on location specific solutions suitable for USAF action. Integration of water stress modeling using the WRI Aqueduct dataset and MAR soil compatibility modeling using the USDA SSURGO soil characterization dataset is used to provide standardized comparative data. Technical details, associated risk, and economic analysis are evaluated to emphasize the imperative of intentional planning when implementing and executing managed aquifer recharge projects across a wide variety of hydrogeological, environmental, and social settings. Public partnership and acceptance is addressed to stress the need for transparency, community engagement, and mutual benefit when considering MAR methods not previously used in some localities. A prioritized list of 44 USAF installations experiencing high levels of water stress along one of 4 WRI Aqueduct indicators was further examined for installation-specific feasibility metrics. A final list of 18 installations located in the Western United States was identified with high water stress, low-cost MAR implementation, and regulatory process simplicity was compiled using a Multi-Criteria Decision Model (MCDM).

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENV-MS-25-M-086

Comments

An embargo was observed for this posting.

Approved for public release, Distribution Unlimited. PA Case Number 88ABW-2025-0329

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