This monograph represents many years of groundwater data accumulation by a large number of noted hydrogeologists located throughout the world. It represents a multicultural approach to groundwater resources and their use. As a result, many of the fundamental concepts in hydrogeology are interpreted slightly differently in other countries. In fact, there are a number of hydrogeologic phenomena introduced that for the most part have not been presented internationally. Since various cultures review the science of hydrogeology with their own nuances, a substantial effort was made to provide classic references in the science of hydrogeology. The focus of the monograph was to present data and scientific principals, which are relevant to groundwater use in each of the countries. This monograph represents a major undertaking by hydrologists and hydrogeologists around the world. Although the fundamental groundwater resource data may change slowly over time, the groundwater use data is rapidly changing. Consulting hydrogeologists, engineers, chemists, geologists, biologists, health officials, and government environmental administrators will find this baseline document of substantial value. It is fully anticipated that this book will serve as the first addition of a series on groundwater resources of the world and their use.