Introductory Chapter: Aquifers Today and Tomorrow

Abstract

As defined in many scientific texts “An aquifer is an underground layer of water bearing permeable rock, rock fractures or unconsolidated material from which groundwater can be extracted using water well” [1]. Related terms used are aquitard, which is a bed of low permeability along an aquifer, and aquiclude, which is a solid, impermeable area underlying or overlying an aquifer, making an aquifer confined or unconfined. Aquifer system is a series of two or more aquifers hydraulically connected with each other. If an aquifer or an aquifer system spans more than one state, it is called transboundary aquifer [2]. An aquifer is therefore the combination of both; an underground rock structure, and water mass existing in the pores and voids. Aquifers contain by far the largest volume of unfrozen fresh water on earth thus making it an enormously important natural resource, entrusted to us by the Mother Nature for equitable use and safe custody for the next generations to come. Because of the fact that aquifer is hidden to the eye, therefore till today they are poorly known and understood by the common masses and decision makers alike.