Thematic mapping for development and management of shared water resources in the ESCWA region

Abstract

This document contains information on the Thematic Mapping for Development and Management of Shaved Water Resources in me ESCWA Region. ESCWA is carrying out studies and mapping of regional aquifer systems within the general scope to promote cooperation between member countries in the field of management of water resources and to provide governments with the required information and capabilities for the management of shared water resources. The methods applied for data compilation and processing and for map preparation are discussed on the example of the investigation of groundwater resources in the basalt field extending over 25,000 km2 in southwestern Syria and northern Jordan, which has been carried out by ESCWA in cooperation with national institutions of both countries. The study comprised an evaluation of existing data and information through an iterative process of data processing, digitizing of relevant features from maps, plotting of maps as working sheets and drafts and discussion with specialists of national institutions in Jordan and Syria. The main results of the study are the presentation of 15 thematic maps to be used for the purposes of water resources planning and the provision of regional information to the national institutions. The presented information is, to some part, directly applicable to the planning and execution of measures of groundwater development and management, e.g. in connection with the quantitative assessment of groundwater resources, the adequate design of irrigation schemes or the delineation of prospective groundwater exploration areas.