Groundwater recharge from the Moroccan Atlas mountains and implications on current and future water resources

Abstract

In northwest Africa, one of the most significant water resources is contained inside the High Atlas Mountains. But there is still a dearth of comprehensive research on the relationships between snow cover and mountainous wetlands, how their extent has changed over time and place, and how these relationships affect northwest Africa's water supplies. We suggest using a multidisciplinary approach in this research to look at the dynamics of wetlands in the High Atlas Mountains. Using isotope tracers and a range of timeframes, we want to characterize the many components of the water cycle in the area, such as evaporation, precipitation, surface water, and groundwater movement. Investigations of the relationships between snow events, snowmelt, surface water at the Lake of Ifni, and the nearby springs were conducted during a number of fieldwork and sample programs conducted throughout various seasons. Based on an altitudinal gradient and a local meteoric water line, the stable isotope data show that the lake is locally refilled by snowmelt and embedded springs. Additionally, spring water samples downstream indicate that, at the watershed level, the Lake of Ifni is the primary source of groundwater recharge outside of the winter season. Our findings demonstrate the significant role that snowfall from the Atlas Mountains plays in replenishing Morocco's primary aquifers. Future climate forecasts will highlight the importance of our research in providing hitherto unheard-of insights into Northwest Africa's water supplies. Decision-makers in the area will be able to better manage water resources and implement climate change plans with the help of our research.