Vadose zone infiltration wells for stormwater management and managed aquifer recharge: A global review and pre-/post-installation decision framework

Authors: GOMES, RUAN - Oregon State University; Bradford, Scott; SASIDHARAN, SALINI - Oregon State University

Submitted to: Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/10/2026
Publication Date: 6/8/2026
Citation: Gomes, R., Bradford, S.A., Sasidharan, S. 2026. Vadose zone infiltration wells for stormwater management and managed aquifer recharge: A global review and pre-/post-installation decision framework. Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology. 56(16):886-907. https://doi.org/10.1080/10643389.2026.2678936.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10643389.2026.2678936

Interpretive Summary: Groundwater resources are critical for ensuring water and food security. This paper reviews publications examining the use of deep vadose zone wells (DVZWs) to mitigate flooding and groundwater depletion. Advantages of DVZWs over other managed aquifer recharge (MAR) approaches are highlighted. A path forward is described to increase groundwater quantity and quality when using DVZWs. In particular, pretreatments are proposed as a way to increase regulatory acceptance by mitigating the risks of clogging and to remove contaminants in source water. This information will be of interest to scientists, engineers, consultants, and government agencies concerned with enhancing groundwater sustainability and resilience using DVZWs.

Technical Abstract: Groundwater depletion and increasing flood risks are growing challenges to water security, intensified by weather extremes and land-use pressures. Deep vadose zone wells, such as drywells, offer a promising solution by enhancing aquifer recharge and managing excess surface water. While the technique shows strong potential, its global acceptance requires further clarification to overcome technical challenges. Successful implementation depends on proper installation and operation, as well as accurate site characterization, pretreatments to minimize clogging and ensure long-term performance, and assessing and reducing risks of aquifer contamination. In this study, we reviewed 51 peer-reviewed publications to assess the global acceptance of deep vadose zone wells, identify current and potential end-users, and examine technological developments related to water quantity, water quality, and clogging. Results indicate a growing global interest, particularly over the last 15 years, and in urban areas, with agricultural adoption emerging recently. Modeling capabilities are well developed for water quantity, while measurement procedures have advanced significantly for water quality. Clogging, despite being a critical challenge, has received limited attention. Building on this synthesis, we propose a novel technical framework outlining key steps to be taken before installation (pre-assessment) and during system operation (post-assessment). By embedding state-of-the-art knowledge into practical protocols, this work aims to support scholars, engineers, and practitioners to promote safer adoption of deep vadose zone wells. Ultimately, the framework contributes to advancing safer installation and operation of these systems, contributing to groundwater sustainability and resilience, and promoting integrated water management in vulnerable regions.