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Optimization of Freshwater–Saline Water Resource Mixing Irrigation Under Multiple Constraints

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  • Yanyan Ge

    (Xinjiang Key Laboratory for Geodynamic Processes and Metallogenic Prognosis of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, College of Geology and Mining Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830047, China)

  • Yifan Jia

    (Xinjiang Key Laboratory for Geodynamic Processes and Metallogenic Prognosis of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, College of Geology and Mining Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830047, China)

  • Sheng Li

    (Xinjiang Key Laboratory for Geodynamic Processes and Metallogenic Prognosis of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, College of Geology and Mining Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830047, China)

  • Feilong Jie

    (Xinjiang Key Laboratory for Geodynamic Processes and Metallogenic Prognosis of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, College of Geology and Mining Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830047, China)

Abstract

The unique anticline geological structure in the central region of Yingjisha County results in significant spatial variations in groundwater quality. The study shows that the recoverable groundwater reserves account for 13.5% of the natural groundwater supply, and the development potential is considerable. Therefore, this study conducts an in-depth analysis of the spatial distribution characteristics of multiple water sources, integrates agricultural cropping patterns, and delineates irrigation districts accordingly. A water quality-based optimized allocation model for water resources is established. After optimization, the total irrigation water demand is reduced from 3685.8 million m 3 to 3229.9 million m 3 , with total groundwater extraction controlled at 694.0 million m 3 . The total water shortage rate is 12%, and the decline in groundwater levels has been effectively controlled. Additionally, 116.4 million m 3 of saline water is utilized, achieving an 83% utilization rate, which accounts for 16.8% of total groundwater extraction. Consequently, the utilization rate of freshwater decreases from 127% to 64%, while the overall water supply reliability reaches 87.6%. The sequence of water supply and consumption in the model remains consistent with the existing supply structure, demonstrating the rationality of the model parameter settings. This study proposes an optimal freshwater–saline water allocation model, which mixes saline water with reservoir water for dilution and subsequent agricultural irrigation. The approach aims to exploit the potential of saline groundwater and enhance the utilization efficiency of groundwater systems, thereby providing an innovative solution to alleviate water supply-demand conflicts in arid regions.

Suggested Citation

  • Yanyan Ge & Yifan Jia & Sheng Li & Feilong Jie, 2025. "Optimization of Freshwater–Saline Water Resource Mixing Irrigation Under Multiple Constraints," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(8), pages 1-17, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:8:p:3729-:d:1638801
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Singh, Ajay, 2018. "Assessment of different strategies for managing the water resources problems of irrigated agriculture," Agricultural Water Management, Elsevier, vol. 208(C), pages 187-192.
    2. Li, Shuoyang & Yang, Guiyu & Wang, Hao & Song, Xiufang & Chang, Cui & Du, Jie & Gao, Danyang, 2023. "A spatial-temporal optimal allocation method of irrigation water resources considering groundwater level," Agricultural Water Management, Elsevier, vol. 275(C).
    3. Lina Mi & Juncang Tian & Jianning Si & Yuchun Chen & Yinghai Li & Xinhe Wang, 2020. "Evolution of Groundwater in Yinchuan Oasis at the Upper Reaches of the Yellow River after Water-Saving Transformation and Its Driving Factors," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-17, February.
    4. Jinxia Wang & Yuting Jiang & Huimin Wang & Qiuqiong Huang & Hongbo Deng, 2020. "Groundwater irrigation and management in northern China: status, trends, and challenges," International Journal of Water Resources Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 36(4), pages 670-696, July.
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