Modeling of Aquifer Recharge Induced by the Senega–Tambo Amunas, Lima- Perú

Abstract

In Peruvian Andes, amunas are canals built since pre-Incan times that divert streamflow during the wet season to promote infiltration along hillsides, enhancing groundwater recharge and increasing water availability during the dry season. The objective of this research was to analyze the modeling of aquifer recharge induced by an amuna using specific tools within the CUBHIC platform, which enables improved understanding of these ancestral systems. Daily climate series, soil parameters, basin land cover, and aquifer parameters were used in two scenarios (baseline and with amuna), ensuring temporal and physical consistency in the simulations. Hydrological variables were evaluated, and reported data from the Huamantanga amuna were used to calibrate the model, demonstrating the suitability of the methodology. Subsequently, considering its similarity to the Senega-Tambo amuna, the corresponding parameters were determined to estimate the induced recharge in this system. Overall, the results confirm that the amuna increases effective percolation and extends groundwater availability beyond the rainy season, contributing to the maintenance of baseflow during the dry period. The consistency of the results supports the applicability of CUBHIC for quantify induced recharge and to assist in the design, prioritization, and optimization of amunas in high Andean basins. This study demonstrated that ancestral hydraulic knowledge can be leveraged to address the impacts of climate change and, in doing so, help mitigate urban water stress.