Features of interaction between lake water and springs, and evaluation of hydrochemical composition of water in Ifni Lake (High Atlas Mountains, Morocco, north of Africa)

Abstract

The National Park of Toubkal is located in the High Moroccan Atlas Mountains, one of the regions sheltering the highest summits of North Africa (Mount Toubkal with an elevation of 4167 m). The park is characterized by very important water resources, including Ifni Lake, which is the highest natural lake in Morocco (with an elevation of 2320 m). This lake is located on the southern side of Mt. Toubkal. This area has never been the object of an environmental or hydrological study. The objective of the current study was the characterization of Ifni Lake and the spring waters located in this area, as the basis of a framework to protect natural resources in northern Africa. The hydrochemical composition of water determines its origin and relationship with its catchment. Hydrochemical studies were carried out to assess the ions water composition, and processes governing the hydrochemistry of Ifni Lake water and the springs in the study area. A total of 20 water samples were collected in 2013 and analyzed for various parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity, and major ions. The physico-chemical analysis of the Ifni Lake water showed that this is the least mineralized water studied in this region, having a bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium as dominate ions. Also there is a relationship between the hydrochemical composition of Ifni Lake and spring waters.