Dynamics of interaction of groundwater and Qigai lake in the Ordos Plateau, P.R. China

Study on groundwater and surface water interactions is vital to the effective water resources management and aquatic eco-rehabilitation. In this study, measurements of water table and lake stage were conducted in Oigai Lake to study the interaction between groundwater and lake water. Hydrochemical data was also used as an alternative indicator to study the recharge-discharge functions of Qigai lake and groundwater. The study shows that there are two water-table configurations. In the configuration 1, groundwater recharges lake water, while in the configuration 2 groundwater received lake water input. The dynamic relation between groundwater and Qigai Lake was caused by the rapid response to the recharge and discharge events of groundwater. The findings can be used to make rational groundwater development and ecosystem protection schemes for the Ordos Plateau.