Hydrochemical Characterization and Pollution Sensitivity of the Ghiss-Nekor Aquifer (Morocco): Impacts of Agriculture and Seawater Intrusion

¹ Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Abdelmalek Essaadi, B.P. 2121, M’Hannech II, 93002, Tetouan, Morocco
² Applied Chemistry Team, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences and techniques, ABdelmalik Essaâdi university, 39000 Al Hociema, Morocco
³ Laboratory of National Office of Water and Electricity – Water Branch, Al Hociema, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to examine the evolution and sensitivity of groundwater in the Ghiss-Nekor aquifer, looking at geology, hydrochemistry and water quality. The Ghiss-Nekor aquifer is located in the Rif region, where the geology is made up of limestone, marl and alluvial rocks. The impact of these rocks on groundwater recharge and circulation is significant, such as Mineralization. To achieve our objectives in this study, we began with determining the chemical composition of the groundwater through an in-depth analysis of hydrochemical parameters. The main ions analyzed are cations (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺) and anions (HCO⁻₃, SO²⁻₄, Cl⁻, NO⁻)₃. These analyzes enable us to determine the origin of the water and, through various statistical tests such as K-means, PCA, HAC, and Piper's facies diagram we obtain two facies' groups and two factors influencing the nature and quality of the groundwater, we can identify the origin and quality of the groundwater in this aquifer. The groundwater quality was evaluated in compliance with national and international standards. Test results highlighted significant differences in ion concentrations, particularly elevated levels concentration of chloride 828,16 mg/L and sulfate 814,101 mg/L, as well as certain pollutants like nitrate concentration 498,044 mg/L. There is also evidence of contamination from marine intrusion. The sources of pollutants include agricultural activities due to the excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, industrial and domestic emissions, and the infiltration of untreated wastewater. These sources contribute to the degradation of groundwater quality. To protect the aquifer, various solutions have been proposed to combat pollution and preserve groundwater quality, including the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices and regular monitoring of water quality.