A Geochemical Survey of Groundwater in Khana and Gokana Local Government Areas of Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Fifteen groundwater samples from functional boreholes in Khana and Gokana areas of Rivers State were collected and analysed for various physico-chemical parameters using standard field and laboratory techniques. This was done to assess the suitability of the water for domestic and other purposes on the basis of the parameters studied. Results show the following mean values for the physical parameters: temperature, 24.80C; Electrical Conductivity (EC), 15.9m s/cm. For the chemical parameters, the following average concentration levels were obtained: pH 6.99; total iron, 0.04mg/l; magnesium 0.85mg/l; sodium, 0.89mg/l; and potassium 0.05mg/l. Others include bicarbonate, 8.19mg/l; chloride 32.52mg/l; sulphate, 0.92mg/l; nitrate, 0.82mg/l; and Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), 7.73mg/l. These results show that the groundwater in these areas is slightly acidic to slightly basic, soft and low in dissolved constituents. Chloride contents in the water show salt-water encroachment into the aquifers in both areas. However, when compared with the World Health Organisation (WHO) standards for drinking water, the results show that the water is suitable for drinking and other domestic purposes in view of the parameters determined. It is also suitable for agricultural purposes. The major sources of ions in the water include mineral assemblages in the rocks, geochemical processes operating within the groundwater system, as well as atmospheric precipitation. Moreover, these geochemical processes, and exploitation of water from different depths are suggested as reasons for the variations in the geochemical parameters with borehole locations. (Journal of Applied Sciences & Environmental Management: 2002 6(1): 53-59)