Call for Applications: IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum Grant (United States)

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is inviting proposals for the IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum, a collaborative research initiative focused on groundwater geochemistry challenges related to Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) in the United States. Eligible U.S.-based organizations can apply for up to $100,000, with a required 33% cost share or in-kind contribution, to organize a technical forum and advance knowledge on sustainable groundwater management.

What is the WRF IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum?

The IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum is a Water Research Foundation initiative that brings together experts from water utilities, research institutions, government agencies, academia, consulting firms, and regulatory bodies to improve understanding of groundwater geochemistry associated with potable water reuse and aquifer storage projects.

The project aims to synthesize existing knowledge, facilitate technical discussions, identify research gaps, and develop practical recommendations that support the safe and sustainable implementation of Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) systems.

Background

As communities seek sustainable water supplies, Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) have become increasingly important water management strategies.

However, introducing treated water into aquifers can trigger complex geochemical reactions that affect:

Groundwater quality.
Metal mobilization.
Scaling and mineral precipitation.
Water treatment performance.
Long-term aquifer sustainability.

The forum will help researchers and practitioners better understand these challenges and identify effective monitoring and mitigation approaches.

Programme Objectives

The project aims to:

Improve understanding of groundwater geochemistry in IPR and ASR systems.
Facilitate knowledge exchange among experts.
Identify current research gaps.
Document field experiences and best practices.
Support evidence-based groundwater management.
Develop priorities for future research.

Key Highlights

Programme Name: IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum
Organiser: Water Research Foundation (WRF)
Maximum Funding: Up to $100,000
Required Cost Share: Minimum 33% of the WRF award through eligible cost share or in-kind contributions
Project Location: United States
Project Type: Research, technical forum, and knowledge exchange

Focus Areas

Projects should address one or more of the following topics.

Groundwater Geochemistry

Research may include:

Geochemical processes.
Aquifer reactions.
Groundwater chemistry.
Water-rock interactions.

Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR)

Projects may explore:

ASR system performance.
Aquifer storage practices.
Injection and recovery processes.
Operational challenges.

Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR)

The programme supports research related to:

Treated water recharge.
Groundwater replenishment.
Drinking water reuse.
Long-term aquifer management.

Aquifer Characterization

Activities may include:

Geological assessments.
Hydrogeological investigations.
Aquifer property analysis.
Site characterization methods.

Metals Mobilization and Scaling

The forum will examine:

Metal release mechanisms.
Scaling issues.
Mineral precipitation.
Water quality impacts.

Redox and Oxidant Management

Projects may address:

Redox reactions.
Oxidation processes.
Chemical stability.
Water treatment optimisation.

Monitoring Strategies

The programme encourages discussion of:

Groundwater monitoring.
Water quality assessment.
Sampling techniques.
Performance evaluation.

Field-Scale Experience

Participants will share:

Practical implementation experiences.
Operational lessons.
Case studies.
Real-world project outcomes.

Geochemical Modelling

Projects may include:

Predictive modelling.
Simulation tools.
Impact forecasting.
Risk assessment.

Future Research Priorities

The initiative will identify:

Knowledge gaps.
Emerging research needs.
Future collaboration opportunities.
Innovation priorities.

Expected Activities

The selected research team will:

Review existing scientific literature.
Analyse previous WRF-funded research.
Review relevant regulatory guidance.
Develop a shared technical knowledge base.
Coordinate with the WRF Project Advisory Committee.
Collaborate with the California State Water Resources Control Board.
Organise a technical forum.
Facilitate expert presentations and discussions.
Document field experiences and best practices.
Identify future research priorities.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based:

Educational institutions.
Universities.
Research organisations.
Government agencies.
Engineering consultants.
For-profit organisations.
Other eligible research entities.

Funding Information

Maximum WRF Funding: Up to $100,000
Required Applicant Contribution: At least 33% of the WRF award through eligible cost share or in-kind support.
Indirect Cost Limit: Indirect costs are capped at 25%.

Applicants must comply with WRF proposal requirements and applicable federal grant regulations.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

Review the official WRF proposal guidelines.
Confirm organisational eligibility.
Develop a proposal aligned with the forum objectives.
Prepare a literature review and forum facilitation approach.
Include a detailed work plan, budget, and cost-share commitment.
Demonstrate expertise in groundwater geochemistry, IPR, or ASR.
Submit the proposal through the official Water Research Foundation application process before the deadline.

Why This Programme Matters

Groundwater is a critical source of drinking water across the United States.

This initiative helps to:

Improve groundwater sustainability.
Support safe potable water reuse.
Strengthen scientific collaboration.
Advance practical knowledge.
Reduce operational risks.
Inform regulatory decision-making.
Guide future water research investments.

The project also contributes to more resilient and sustainable water resource management.

Tips for a Strong Proposal

To strengthen your application:

Demonstrate expertise in groundwater geochemistry or hydrogeology.
Include experienced multidisciplinary partners.
Present a clear forum facilitation strategy.
Incorporate practical case studies and field experience.
Develop realistic timelines and deliverables.
Clearly document the required cost-share contribution.
Show familiarity with WRF research and regulatory guidance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common issues:

Failing to meet the 33% cost-share requirement.
Submitting proposals without a clear knowledge exchange strategy.
Providing limited expertise in groundwater geochemistry.
Ignoring field-scale implementation experiences.
Presenting incomplete budgets or work plans.
Exceeding the allowable indirect cost limit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of the IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum?

The forum aims to improve understanding of groundwater geochemistry associated with Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) through expert collaboration, knowledge sharing, and research synthesis.

2. How much funding is available?

Applicants may request up to $100,000 from the Water Research Foundation.

3. Is cost sharing required?

Yes. Applicants must provide eligible cost share or in-kind contributions equal to at least 33% of the WRF funding award.

4. Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based educational institutions, research organisations, government agencies, engineering consultants, and eligible for-profit entities.

5. What topics should proposals address?

Proposals may focus on groundwater geochemistry, aquifer characterization, ASR, IPR, metals mobilization, scaling, redox management, monitoring strategies, geochemical modelling, field experiences, and future research priorities.

6. What activities will the selected team undertake?

The selected team will conduct literature reviews, organise a technical forum, facilitate expert discussions, document practical experiences, collaborate with WRF and regulatory partners, and prepare recommendations for future research.

7. Why is this programme important?

The initiative supports safer and more effective groundwater recharge and potable reuse by improving scientific understanding of aquifer geochemistry, strengthening collaboration among water professionals, and identifying solutions to emerging technical challenges.

Conclusion

The Water Research Foundation IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum offers an important opportunity for U.S. research institutions, utilities, consultants, and government organisations to advance knowledge on groundwater geochemistry in Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) systems. With up to $100,000 in funding and a strong emphasis on collaboration, practical experience, and future research priorities, the programme will help improve sustainable groundwater management and support resilient water infrastructure across the United States.