Abstract
Previous studies revealed that soil properties play a significant role in aquifer contamination. Consequently, it is necessary to understand the nature and properties of soil in carrying out groundwater evaluation. This study evaluates the subsurface geology and groundwater flow direction in Okpagha, Iguomo, Ikhueniro and Okhuahe suburbs in Benin City, Nigeria. Six boreholes were drilled by means of manual (rotary) method in different parts of the study area and each borehole was logged in order to understand the lithology, depth to water table, static water level as well as flow direction. The results obtained show that aquifer within the study areas were confined, semi confined to unconfined and was dominated by sands with minor clay and lignite interbed. It was observed that aquifer becomes shallower towards eastern portion of the study areas with increase in sand and decrease in clay materials. It was also observed that groundwater flow map revealed a flow direction of North-West to South-East from North West to South East. The decrease in the depth of aquifer and increase in sand material could be explained by the closeness to sea level. This phenomenon can enhance the infiltration of contaminants into aquifer thereby contaminating the groundwater bodies. It is therefore necessary to constantly monitor the groundwater quality in this suburbs in order to be aware of the quality of water resources being consumed because poor water quality can impact public health negatively. Furthermore, the authors advise that boreholes should be drilled in the direction of groundwater flow for maximum yield Keywords : Groundwater, lithology, borehole, aquifer, water quality and contaminants
Highlights
In early 80s to about mid-90s, government was solely in charge of public water supply both in the cities and in some rural communities of Nigeria
Omorogieva et al, (2016); Akujieze and Oteze (2007) observed that some aquifer are shallow and subject to groundwater contamination especially in areas of high anthropogenic activities were there is no clay materials acting as seal to the infiltrating contaminants while Onyeobi and Akujieze (2014)
The soil properties couple with the depths to water level in this study indicates that there is a possibility of direct infiltration of the leachates emanating from the dumpsite into the aquifer in the south east portion of the study area the poor water quality observed by Omorogieva et al, (2016)
Summary
In early 80s to about mid-90s, government was solely in charge of public water supply both in the cities and in some rural communities of Nigeria. Reported that soil and sediments have a role to play in groundwater contamination. When wastes are not properly managed, the emanating leachate escape and percolates into groundwater through the soil medium to cause serious environmental and public health problems since waste contain hazardous materials (Imeokparia et al, 2009; Imasuen and Omorogieva, 2013a). It is imperative to understand the lithological characteristics of the subsurface soil and groundwater flow pattern and the contaminants plume direction in order to properly site boreholes as this will help increase groundwater protection and sustainability for the benefit of mankind.
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