Abstract
Basic methodology described previously by the authors for the case of a long strip recharging area is applied. An approximate solution to the three-dimensional problem is obtained by matching two unidimensional flows, a vertical and a radial one. The mathematical formulation is obtained first for the case of a constant infiltration rate and then for a time-dependent rate through the unsaturated zone. The formulation leads to an integrodifferential equation whose solution is obtained numerically using the "discrete kernel" approach. In both cases, concrete examples illustrate the influence of the parameters on the discharge into the saturated zone and on the water table level. Also, a criterion to evaluate the efficiency of the recharge is provided for practical purposes. This criterion allows comparison between different recharge designs.--Modified journal abstract.