Analysis of the effect of climatic variability and increasing water demand on the Saïss aquifer, Morocco

¹ FST of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah University, P.O. Box 2202, Fez, Morocco
² School of Architecture, Planning and Design, UM6P, P.O. Box 43150, Benguerrir, Morocco
³ ENSA, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah University, P.O. Box 72, Fez, Morocco
⁴ Hassania School for Public Works Engineering, P.O. Box 8108, Casablanca, Morocco
⁵ Direction de l’Aménagement du Territoire, MATUHPV, Rabat, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: manalgarouani@yahoo.fr

Abstract

Climate variability has a significant impact on the water table of the Saïss plain, which relies heavily on groundwater for agricultural irrigation and drinking water supply. The study of the spatio-temporal evolution of the groundwater level requires a global and integrated approach that considers both natural processes and human activities. Satellite imagery has provided information on land use and land cover that influences groundwater recharge. The GIS has facilitated the integration of different datasets, allowing spatial analysis, mapping and identification of vulnerable areas to depletion. Geostatistical techniques are used to analyze collected data, identify trends and quantify the relationship between groundwater levels and various influencing factors. The results of this study have shown that the depth of the water table of the Saïss plain between 2000 and 2020 has generally decreased by several metres in the NW and the centre zone, but has improved by a few metres or remained constant in the other areas. This information is valuable for developing sustainable water management plans that take into account both environmental and societal needs.