Groundwater resources in the North China Plain

Shallow groundwater is a major object of exploitation in the North China Plain. About 20 billion m³/yr of fresh groundwater and about 20 billion m³/yr of surface water are available. Present water demand is about equal to or exceeds the utilizable water resources in the North China Plain. Strict economy of water use is needed along with strengthened water control, a restructured development plan, and artificial recharge.