A new program, the Artificial Storage and Recovery Program or ASR for short, is being implemented to replenish the declining acquifer. An ASR facility is relatively simple. In essence, an ASR facility is no more than a standard well installation with a provision for returning flow back down the well. Excess water during the winter months will replenish the aquifer. In order to be effective, the quality and flow of water into the well must be carefully monitored.
Water quality is extremely important.
The water introduced back into the aquifer must be compatible water that meets or exceeds the quality of the existing groundwater supply. If the water that is being introduced back into the water is too high in turbidity, it could clog up the system. Though no date has been set for the implementation of this system, the city is currently testing the system to see how effectiveness of the system. The City of Walla Walla hopes it to be in full operational within 5 years.