Water, one of the most important elements for life on Earth, comes from various sources. Groundwater plays a crucial role in this. It is found in various layers of the earth and reaches the surface through wells, pipes, and springs. One of the most important types of groundwater is surface water , which is the main source of drinking and industrial water in many parts of the world, including Iran.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the definition of open water, its characteristics, importance, uses, threats, and protection methods.
What is free water?
Surface water is groundwater that occurs in porous soil layers (e.g., sand) above the aquifer. This water is in direct contact with the surface, and its level rises and falls depending on precipitation or water abstraction.
Simply put, when it rains or snow melts, some of the water seeps into the soil and collects among its particles. A layer of soil or rock that impedes the movement of water acts like a dam, keeping the free water at the surface.
Open waters
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The free water level or “groundwater level” is directly related to the earth’s surface and is constantly influenced by precipitation, evaporation and extraction. -
Because open waters are closely linked to natural precipitation cycles, their renewability is restored more quickly than that of fossil deep water. -
High permeability
: Free water can move quickly in the environment because it is located in a porous layer. -
Variable quality
: The quality varies depending on the soil type and the degree of surface contamination.
How is free water created?
The cycle of free water formation consists of the following phases:
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Rain or snow → water falls onto the earth’s surface.
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Soil infiltration → Part of the water seeps into the soil.
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Downward movement → Water moves through soil particles into the impermeable layer.
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Accumulation in the impermeable layer → In this stage a free groundwater reservoir is formed.
The difference between free water and pressurized water (artesian water)
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Free water : It is surrounded only by an impermeable layer (the soil) and its surface is in direct contact with the atmosphere.
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Artesian water : Water trapped between two impermeable layers and under pressure, allowing the water to rise automatically when a well is drilled.
The importance of free water
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Drinking water supply : Water is available free of charge from numerous semi-deep wells in cities and towns.
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Agriculture : It is the main source of water for irrigation of agricultural land in arid and semi-arid regions.
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Ecosystem support : Open water areas connected to rivers, wetlands, and springs promote ecological sustainability.
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Natural storage : Like an underground reservoir, it prevents evaporation.
Free water order
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For household use (drinking, washing).
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Industrial use (cooling, production).
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Agricultural use (irrigation).
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Emergency water supply during drought .
Threats to open water resources
1. Over-registration
Excessive use of renewable energy sources can lead to a sharp decline in groundwater levels.
2. Environmental pollution
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Acceptance of municipal and industrial wastewater.
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Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides .
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Fuel and chemicals seep into the ground.
3. Climate change
Decreasing precipitation and rising temperatures disrupt the process of replenishment of free water resources.
4. Resettlement of land
Overexploitation of open water in the Iranian plains has led to severe land subsidence.
The status of free water in Iran
Iran is located in an arid and semi-arid region of the world and is heavily dependent on groundwater, especially freshwater. Freshwater accounts for over 50% of the country’s water consumption.
However, overexploitation of resources, illegal drilling, and insufficient rainfall have led to a decline in groundwater levels in many low-lying areas. Open aquifers in the country’s plains are reportedly depleting at an alarming rate.
Solutions to protect open waters
1. Consumption management
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Use modern irrigation methods such as drip irrigation.
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Reducing water losses in urban water supply networks .
2. Pollution control
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Do not allow wastewater to enter the soil.
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Use fertilizers and pesticides correctly.
3. Artificial nutrition
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Channels rain and flood water into the ground to recharge a stream.
4. Laws and regulations
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Restrictions on granting permits for the construction of new wells.
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Installation of smart meters at oil wells to monitor production.
New methods of water management
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Geophysics and remote sensing : resource monitoring using satellite imagery .
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Computer modeling : predicting the future state of open aquifers.
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Intelligent sensor : Instantly measures the groundwater level in the well.
The role of the public in protecting open waters
Protecting water resources is not just the responsibility of the government; we can all play an active role:
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Save water at home.
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Use energy-saving devices.
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Cultural development in schools and communities.
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Participation in national water resource management plans.
Reverse osmosis (RO) water chemistry from Nitto Hydronautics
Finally
Groundwater is a vital resource and plays a crucial role in supplying water to the population, agriculture, and industry. These valuable resources are particularly important due to their relatively renewable nature and direct contact with the Earth’s surface. However, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change pose a serious threat to their continued existence.
Protecting open waters requires scientific management, the use of modern technologies, strict enforcement of laws, and increased public awareness. If we manage these resources effectively today, future generations will benefit.