Hydrochemical studies of groundwater in the Oum Er Rbia region, Morocco

Abstract

This study investigates the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater in Morocco, focusing on fifty-six protected dug wells distributed across six distinct regions: Doukkala, Bahira, Tassaout, Beni Amir, Beni Moussa, and Tadla. The investigation involves a multidimensional analysis, incorporating physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, and turbidity), various ions (NH₄⁺, K⁺, Mn²⁺, Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cl⁻, NO³⁻, HCO₃⁻, CO₃²⁻, and SO₄²⁻), hydrotimetric titre, total alkalinity, total alkalimetric titre, residual alkalinity, and bacteriological traits (Coliforms Total, Coliforms Fecal, Staphylococcus Fecal, and FC/SF ratio). The results indicate substantial differences among the stations under investigation for all measured parameters. The Tadla region exhibited the lowest electrical conductivity (EC) and turbidity (NTU), indicating superior water quality and minimal contamination, despite higher CO₃²⁻ concentrations. Conversely, Beni Amir exhibits the highest EC and NTU values, indicating poorer water quality due to higher salinity and turbidity. The Tassaout station shows lower concentrations of most ions compared to other areas, pointing to better water quality. Meanwhile, the Doukkala station presents the highest total alkalinity values, which could affect the usability of water depending on specific uses. These results signify the diverse hydrochemical characteristics present in different regions, emphasizing the need for region-specific water management strategies. This work contributes valuable insights into the groundwater quality in Morocco, paving the way for informed decision-making in water resource planning and environmental conservation.