Groundwater Potential Assessment Research Articles

Assessment of Groundwater Potential in Parts of the Coastal Niger Delta, Nigeria: Implications for Well Design

The location, design, drilling and completion of wells for potable groundwater abstraction require exploration and mapping of groundwater potential zones within the geologic framework of any region. In this study, field data acquisition involved seven vertical electrical sounding and three horizontal resistivity profiling (HRP) carried out. Field data were interpreted using IPI2win 1-D software while subsurface lithologic layering and correlation was realized in rockworks v 22. Modelled true geolectric sections after curve matching revealed the study area to be underlain predominantly by clayey lithologic units followed by coarse grained sands with silty sands and fine sands in minor fraction. Total investigation depth range between 314.0m and 510.0m and fresh water was found to occur at a depth of 168m in VES L2, 430m in VES L3 and 154m in VES L6 locations. Iron water was found in some coarse sands at a depth interval of 129 m to 314 m at VES L1 while fresh water in coarse sands underlain by iron water saturated fine sands occurs at a depth interval of 73.20 m to 206 m at VES L2. At VES L3, fresh water saturated coarse sands were found at a depth interval of 131 m to 430m. Boreholes should be drilled to 430m and screened from 131m to 430m at L3. At VES L4, fine sands overlying coarse grained sands were saturated with iron water from 50.20 m to 422m. At VES L6, fresh water saturated coarse grained sandy aquifer was found from 114 m to 154m. Although VES L2, L3 and L6 provides the most suitable prospective locations for fresh water in the area at depths of 168m for L2, 430m for L3 and 154m for L6, lithologic modelling revealed that both coarse sands and fine sands are either juxtaposed or interfingered at the shallow, intermediate and deeper depths, hence, there is strong potential for iron water and fresh water inter-mixing during pumping. All twenty proposed boreholes are recommended not to be pumped at rates exceeding 3,500 l/min. Boreholes should be 450m apart to prevent well interferences and pumping schedule of 10 to 14 boreholes daily will greatly reduce stresses on the well field as well as potential risk from saline intrusion. Three saline water encroachment monitoring boreholes should be sited at 1.5km from L1 and L2 and 2.4km from L7 respectively at the East, West and Southern sections of the plant area.

Geoelectrical assessment of groundwater potential and aquifer characteristics in the west region of Cameroon

Geoelectrical assessment of groundwater potential and aquifer characteristics in the west region of Cameroon

Geoelectrical Investigation of the Groundwater Potential in Eti-Osa, Lagos State, Nigeria

An electrical resistivity survey was conducted in Eti-Osa, Lagos State, Nigeria, to characterize the subsurface lithologic units, delineate the underlying aquifer, and assess groundwater potential. The study utilized an ABEM SAS 1000 terrameter for the data acquisition. Eight vertical electrical soundings were carried out using the Schlumberger electrode configuration. Data interpretation, both qualitative and quantitative, was presented through tables, charts, and sections. The interpreted geoelectric models revealed three to five layers with varying lithologies, including topsoil, sand, silty sand, sandy clay, silty clay, and clay. The first geoelectric layer, with resistivity values ranging from 8 Ωm to 320 Ωm, is relatively thin, with a thickness between 0.4 m and 3 m. The second layer exhibits thicknesses of 1.3 m to 15 m and resistivity variation between 1.5 Ωm to 185 Ωm. The third layer varies in thickness from 1 m to 36 m, with varying resistivity between 9 Ωm to 335 Ωm. The fourth geoelectric layer has a thickness range of 5 m to 20 m and resistivity values between 1.6 Ωm and 193 Ωm. The basement resistivity ranges from 3 Ωm to 361 Ωm. The study identified the sand layers, particularly at VES points 1, 2, 3, and 8, as the most promising for groundwater extraction. In contrast, VES points 4 and 5 are less favorable, and points 6 and 7 may yield lower-quality water. It is recommended that boreholes be drilled to depths greater than 20 meters at VES sites 1, 2, 3, and 8 for optimal water quantity and quality. However, sites 3 and 8 may be at risk of contamination due to shallower depths.

Investigation of Groundwater Potential in Oreke Community, Southwestern Nigeria Using Electromagnetic Method

The assessment of groundwater potential using electromagnetic method at Oreke community located in part of Kwara State, Nigeria was carried out to determine the groundwater potential, depth and productivity of the aquifer in the study area. A combination of eight traverses were investigated using electromagnetic method by means of PQWT –TC 200 geophysical equipment. The information recorded with the use of PQWT-TC 200 at each reading station was plotted at the midpoint of the distance between the two electrodes along the established profiles. Electrode spacing used was between 5 – 10m and station interval of about 0.5 – 2m was maintained. Based on the results generated, it was revealed that the study area has good groundwater potential except for traverse seven (7) which do not show good groundwater potential for domestic use. The interpretation of the electromagnetic data obtained within the study area showed that the depth to aquifer in the study area is between 120m to 195m which shows good yield and potential zones.

Groundwater exploration using self potential and resistivity geoelectrical method as drought disaster mitigation at bukit intan sub-district, Pangkalpinang

Abstract Pangkalpinang City in Bangka Belitung Islands province faces a seasonal water crisis due to its location outside the island’s groundwater basin. This study focuses on assessing groundwater potential in the Bukit Intan sub-district to support drought mitigation efforts. Using a combination of self-potential (SP) and geoelectrical resistivity methods, groundwater flow and aquifer depth were analyzed. Field data were collected across multiple tracks, with SP measurements revealing areas of potential groundwater movement, while resistivity profiles indicated aquifer presence at depths of 3-30 meters. Results suggest that groundwater potential is concentrated in certain recharge zones, highlighting areas suitable for targeted extraction and the establishment of boreholes. These aquifers exhibit seasonal fluctuations in groundwater levels, whereas the confined zones are located at greater depths and are more isolated, likely due to the presence of resistive layers that restrict flow. This assessment provides crucial insights for improving groundwater management in drought-affected regions of Pangkalpinang City.

Groundwater hydrogeochemistry and potential health risk assessment through exposure to elevated arsenic in Darrang district of north bank plain of the Brahmaputra

The current study investigates groundwater contamination in Darrang district, situated in the flood-prone Brahmaputra Valley. This research evaluates the concentrations and geospatial distributions of iron, fluoride, and arsenic in groundwater samples (n = 347) and assesses their potential ecotoxicological risks to human health. Multivariate statistical techniques were used to investigate the sources and the mobilization mechanism of the contaminants in the aquifer system. The Piper and Gibbs plots reveal that silicate weathering, ion exchange, and mineral dissolution are the dominant processes influencing groundwater chemistry. Notably, higher pH levels (max = 8.5, mean = 7.4) are associated with alkaline desorption of arsenic from minerals. Cluster analysis also indicates the occurrence of pH induced carbonate weathering process implying weathering and active dissolution as a governing mechanism for arsenic release. The health risk assessments indicate significant non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks from prolonged exposure to arsenic, particularly for children. Spatial distribution maps identify areas most at risk of contamination and related health hazards. This is the first comprehensive analysis of groundwater contaminants in Darrang, providing valuable insights into the region’s water quality issues and supporting future groundwater management efforts in Brahmaputra floodplain region.

Groundwater potential assessment in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, using analytical hierarchical process (AHP) technique

Groundwater is crucial for the growth of any country. It is a vital resource for drinking water, agriculture, industry, and economic development. However, delineating the groundwater potential zones requires a systematic approach. This study assessed the groundwater potential zones (GWPZ) in the Ntabankulu municipality using remote sensing, geographic information systems, and analytical hierarchical process (AHP) techniques. Six groundwater controlling parameters were integrated to assess groundwater potential zones, including lithology, slope, lineaments density, land use/land cover, drainage density, and rainfall. The AHP pairwise comparison matrix was utilized to determine the normalized weight of the parameters. The parameters and their classes were assigned ranks, taking into account their influence on groundwater accumulation. The resultant GWPZ map was generated by integrating the parameters and their assigned weights in ArcGIS 10.8 software. The final map from the AHP technique showed five GWPZ, including very poor (13.06%), poor (25.36%), moderate (26.93%), good (22.72%), and very good (11.93%). Validation was done by using the existing 242 boreholes in the study area. Furthermore, the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was plotted, and the area under the curve (AUC) analysis indicated a satisfactory accuracy prediction (AUC = 61%). The results of this study will assist in developing a proper plan for sustainable utilization of groundwater resources within the Ntabankulu municipality.

Groundwater Potential Assessment Using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Remote Sensing, and GIS: A Case Study from the Zaafarana Region, Western Coast of the Gulf of Suez, Egypt

Groundwater Potential Assessment Using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Remote Sensing, and GIS: A Case Study from the Zaafarana Region, Western Coast of the Gulf of Suez, Egypt

Integrated geophysical and GIS approaches for groundwater potential assessment: a case study of Aladja, Delta State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT This study explores the groundwater potential in Aladja, Udu, Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, using an integrated approach combining electrical resistivity techniques with Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) methods. The primary aim is to delineate aquifers and comprehensively assess groundwater resources. Methods include Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) to gather resistivity data, RS and GIS for analyzing geological and hydrological parameters such as lineament density, drainage density, slope, soil type, and land use. The resistivity values ranged from 147 to 460.50 Ωm, with aquifer thicknesses varying between 6.50 and 36.30 m. The RS and GIS analysis indicated high groundwater potential in regions characterized by significant lineament density and moderate slopes. The study highlights the complementarity of VES and RS/GIS in groundwater exploration, revealing substantial groundwater resources in the northwestern regions of the study area. This approach underscores the importance of integrating these methods for a more accurate assessment of groundwater potential. The novelty of this study lies in validating RS and GIS findings with VES data, ensuring reliable groundwater potential mapping and effective resource management. This integrated methodology offers a robust framework for sustainable groundwater resource assessment and management in similar geological settings.

Geospatial and geo-electrical assessment of groundwater vulnerability and potential in parts of Cross River, Southern Nigeria

Assessing groundwater vulnerability and potential is essential for sustainable management. This study evaluates these factors in southern Cross River, Nigeria, using geospatial and geo-electrical methods, including Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Remote Sensing (RS). Twenty VES surveys were performed, revealing aquifer resistivity from 5.12 to 506.00 Ω/m, thickness from 6.60 to 34.30 m, and depth from 18.60 to 68.00 m. Rainfall was the most significant factor (38 %) affecting groundwater potential, followed by geology (24 %), slope (13 %), drainage density (8 %), land use/cover (6 %), lineament density (5 %), and soil type (3 %). With a Consistency Ratio (CR) of 0.043884, data consistency was high. Groundwater potential zoning (GWPZ) maps categorized the area into low, moderate, good, and excellent zones, highlighting high potential in western areas with high lineament density and moderate slopes. This research demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating geospatial and geo-electrical techniques for groundwater assessment.

An Assessment of Groundwater Potential for Water Supply in Misau and Dambam Local Government Areas of Bauchi State, Nigeria

This study aimed at assessing groundwater potential in Misau and Dambam areas of Bauchi State, Nigeria. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) survey was also conducted to carry out the study. Five thematic maps were generated for weighted overlay. Descriptive statistics was used to analysed data on water supply situation, aquifer parameters were analysed using standard table where porosity and permeability were calculated. The VES data was analysed using ipi2win, thematic maps were produced through overlay analysis using extension of ArcGIS 10.4. VES result reveals the existence of about three to four geologic layers in the study area which constitute the topsoil, weathered rock, weathered/fractured rock, fractured basement, and fresh basement rock. Nine out of the thirteen soundings conducted were found to be of good in nature while the only non-promising aquifers were found in Jalam Kukadi, Hardawa PHC, Bada Koshi, Dambam A Bam. Five groundwater potential zones were determined which are very low 354 km2 (15%), low 393 km2 (15%), moderate 416 km2 (20%), high 436 km2 (25%), and very high 497 km2 (25%). Drainage is the most important factor affecting groundwater occurrence with 25% which is the highest followed by geology with 22%. It can be concluded that 50% of the study area was characterized under high, and very high groundwater potential. It is recommended that areas with poor groundwater potentials government and non-governmental organizations should provide them with an alternative source of water to aid them during periods of difficulties.

Strategic assessment of groundwater potential zones: a hybrid geospatial approach

Groundwater aquifers constitute the primary water supply for populations in arid regions, exemplified by the Goharkooh Plain in Iran's driest drainage basin, where conditions of high evapotranspiration and low precipitation prevail. With the escalating demand for water resources, driven mainly by agricultural expansion, the strategic management of groundwater assets has become increasingly critical. This study focuses on delineating groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) through an integrated approach combining multi-criteria decision analysis and geospatial tools. Based on an extensive literature review, nine thematic layers were selected and developed: lithology, geology, drainage density, slope gradient, elevation, vegetation cover, lineament density, land use, and precipitation. These criteria were initially weighted using the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) and subsequently integrated via weighted overlay analysis. In this research, the strategic selection of thematic layers for assessing groundwater potential in arid regions has been identified as an innovative approach that could significantly advance studies in similar settings. The analysis revealed that approximately 60% of the study area, primarily in the southwestern parts, exhibited moderate to very high groundwater potential. This potential is primarily attributed to the presence of alluvial deposits, low drainage density, and favorable slope and elevation conditions. Applying the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve yields an area under the curve (AUC) of 81.5%, indicating a relatively high level of predictive accuracy. These findings demonstrate the efficacy of this integrated approach, suggesting its broader applicability in regions with analogous groundwater challenges and management needs.

An optimization framework with dimensionality reduction using Markov Chain Monte Carlo and genetic algorithms for groundwater potential assessment

Limited samples and high-dimensional feature spaces often hinder the accuracy of machine learning (ML) models in regional groundwater potential assessment (GPA). This study proposes a novel framework, the GPA with Dimensionality Optimization (GPADO), that optimizes feature dimension reduction to enhance prediction performance. Taking the Jianghan Basin as an example, data on nine continuous variables and five categorical variables influencing the region's GPA were gathered, expanding the feature set to 37 through One-hot encoding for categorical variables. Three scenarios were devised to assess prediction outcomes following various dimensionality reduction approaches. Comparative analysis revealed that a hybrid dimension reduction method, incorporating both continuous and categorical variables, yielded the highest validation set accuracy. Consequently, genetic algorithm and Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods were employed to determine the optimal solution and uncertainties associated with four unknown parameters: the chosen dimension reduction method for continuous and categorical variables, and the number of dimensions retained. Results indicated that utilizing singular value decomposition to reduce categorical variables to three dimensions, coupled with principal component analysis reducing continuous variables to three dimensions, produced the highest model validation accuracy of 0.834 within the GPADO framework. This optimal configuration facilitated automated ML training, resulting in a final validation set accuracy of 0.851 and a test set accuracy of 0.836. The resulting model provided a more precise spatial distribution of groundwater potential and demonstrated the GPADO framework's effectiveness in improving GPA accuracy, particularly in data-scarce regions. The GPADO framework offers a valuable approach for enhancing GPA studies.

Groundwater potential recharge assessment in Southern Mediterranean basin using GIS and remote sensing tools: case of Khalled- Teboursouk basin, karst aquifer

Groundwater potential recharge assessment in Southern Mediterranean basin using GIS and remote sensing tools: case of Khalled- Teboursouk basin, karst aquifer

Hydrogeological assessment of groundwater potential and quality in Jabung village and its surroundings, Jabung sub-district, Malang regency

Abstract Jabung Village is located in Jabung Sub-District, Malang Regency, East Java. The groundwater potential of this area varies, there are areas with good groundwater potential (Krajan and Boro Kidul), but others have poor groundwater potential. In addition, an existing Integrated Waste Management Shelter (IWMS) has the potential to pollute groundwater. The purpose of this research is to analyze the controlling factors for differences in groundwater potential and to conduct mitigation of groundwater pollution due to IWMS. The collection of groundwater data, including groundwater levels and quality (TDS, pH, and temperature), was carried out at 49 points. Geological data were collected at 29 points, then analyzed and presented on a geological map. The groundwater flows from northeast to southwest. Based on the groundwater flow patterns, areas with good groundwater potential are in the discharge zone, while other sites that have poor groundwater potential are in the recharge and transition zone. The groundwater quality measured is as follows TDS values are <400 mg/L, the temperature is 24.5 to 27.7 °C, and the pH ranges from 5.95 to 7.67. The study area is composed of andesite lava, lapilli tuff, coarse tuff, and fine tuff. Differences in groundwater potential are thought to occur significantly due to groundwater flow patterns. Furthermore, it is necessary to periodically monitor groundwater quality, especially in the outflow zone of IWMS.

Delineation of groundwater vulnerable zone for sustainable development in the southwestern part of Bihar, India

In the face of the global groundwater crisis and climate change challenges, the groundwater potential (GWP) and quality (GWQ) assessment for tackling the depletion and contamination of aquifers are imperative for India's sustainable development of groundwater resources. This study explores the GWP and GWQ in the southwestern part of Bihar state, located in the declining groundwater of the lower Indo-Gangetic plain, where population growth, rapid urbanization, and escalating agricultural demands have strained aquifer systems. This study uses the Analytical Hierarchy Process and weighted average techniques in the GIS framework to assess groundwater vulnerability. Our results reveal that over 82% of the area exhibits good groundwater potential, except for the southern part. The presence of Vindhyan mountains in the southern part has different geology, elevation, and land use and land cover, leading to poor groundwater potential. Considering the desirable and acceptable limits by BIS (2012) and Who (2022), it has been found that 89% and 18% of the study area falls under the poor to unsuitable groundwater category, affecting a staggering 7.7 million and 1.6 million individuals, respectively despite substantial groundwater potential. Findings from this investigation indicate that groundwater contamination resulted from anthropogenic and geogenic factors; however, it remains suitable for agricultural purposes. Our research will assist policymakers in implementing sustainable management strategies to ensure a lasting and reliable supply for domestic and agricultural uses of groundwater.

Geoelectric analysis for groundwater potential assessment and aquifer protection in a part of Shango, North-Central Nigeria

Groundwater is vital for sustainable development, and this study addresses potable water challenges in Shango, North-Central Nigeria. The main goal is to identify optimal sites for new wells and boreholes, utilizing geological and geo-electrical attributes from existing boreholes and wells. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) assessed groundwater potential, aquifer protection, and overburden corrosivity. Sixteen VES stations were probed using Schlumberger array with a maximum current electrode spacing (AB/2) of 200 m using a resistivity meter. The data were interpreted using an automatic computer inversion program, IPI2WIN. The VES results revealed five subsurface geo-electric units, with depths to the aquifer ranging from 58 to 68 m, each exhibiting distinct characteristics contributing to the lithological variability of the research area. Hydraulic conductivity ranged from 0.465 to 0.534 m/day, while transmissivity varied from 9.589 m2/day to 26.029 m2/day across different VES points. Regions exhibiting thick layers and low resistivity values indicate high longitudinal conductivity. Furthermore, areas with low protective capacity are susceptible to the risks of pollution and contamination stemming from leaks and waste sites. The study revealed that all VES points are in practically non-corrosive zones, making them suitable for burying underground tanks with extremely low deterioration rates. Based on geoelectrical characteristics, the study area was divided into three groundwater potential zones: low, medium, and high. These findings provide valuable insights into the groundwater potential and protective capacity of the Shango area, while emphasizing on the vulnerability of these regions and highlighting the pressing need for appropriate preventive measures to safeguard against potential environmental hazards.

Groundwater Potential Assessment in the Upper Oum Er-Rbia Basin, Northern Morocco

Groundwater Potential Assessment in the Upper Oum Er-Rbia Basin, Northern Morocco

Integration of Geospatial Technologies and Fuzzy-AHP Analysis to Assess Groundwater Potential in the Sirwa Massif, Anti-Atlas Region, Morocco

Integration of Geospatial Technologies and Fuzzy-AHP Analysis to Assess Groundwater Potential in the Sirwa Massif, Anti-Atlas Region, Morocco

Modelling Approach for Assessment of Groundwater Potential of the Moghra Aquifer, Egypt, for Extensive Rural Development

Groundwater-dependent cultivation is imperative to meet the ever-increasing food demands in Egypt. To explore the Moghra aquifer’s potential, where a large-scale rural community is being established, a finite element groundwater flow (i.e., FEFLOW®) model was invoked. The developed model was calibrated against the observed water levels. GRACE-based groundwater storage was incorporated into the tuning procedure of the developed model. Eight abstraction rates from 1000 wells, changing from 800 to 1500 m3/day/well, were simulated for a 100-year test period. The maximum resulting drawdown values, respectively, ranged from 59 to 112 m equating to about 20–40% of the aquifer’s saturated thickness. The implications of the climate change from gradual sea level rise and an increase in crop consumptive water use were investigated. Extending seawater invasion into the aquifer caused a slight increase in the piezometric levels within a narrow strip along the seaside. Applying a chronologically increasing withdrawal rate to meet the projected increment in crop water requirements raised the maximum resulting drawdown by about 7.5%. The sustainable exploitation regime was defined as a time-increasing withdrawal rate adequate to reclaim 85,715 acres (34,688 ha). The recommended development scheme is compatible with the withdrawal rationing rule, aiming to maintain that the resulting drawdown does not exceed one meter a year.