TITLE:
Groundwater Potential Mapping in Lapan Gwari Community Using Integrated Remote Sensing and Electrical Resistivity Soundings
AUTHORS:
Ayuba Danmangu Mangs, Jude Steven Ejepu, Charity Chizaram Nkemkah, Solomon Nehemiah Yusuf, Adamu Keana Sallau, Janet Agati Yakubu, Yusuf Ibrahim, Williams Midala Wakili
KEYWORDS:
Vertical Electrical Sounding, Electrical Resistivity Imaging, Fractured Aquifer, Groundwater Exploration
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Geosciences,
Vol.14 No.8,
August
28,
2023
ABSTRACT: This
research aims to address the pressing issue of failed and abandoned wells, causing water scarcity in Lapan Gwari Community,
through an improved groundwater exploration
approach integrating remote sensing and electrical resistivity soundings. The
study area, located within the Zungeru Sheet 163 SE, spans Latitudes 9°30'00"N to
9°32'00"N and Longitudes 6°28'00" to 6°30'00". The surface geologic, structural, and
hydrogeological mapping provided essential insights into the hydrogeological
framework. Leveraging SRTM DEM data, thematic maps were created for
geomorphology, slope, land use, lineament density, and drainage density. These
datasets were then integrated using ArcGIS
to develop a preliminary groundwater potential zones map. Further
investigations were conducted using Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and
Electrical Resistivity Imaging (2D VES) surveys at targeted locations
identified by the preliminary map. Results show that the study area
predominantly consists of crystalline rocks of the Nigerian Basement Complex, primarily comprising schist and granite with
minor occurrences of quartz vein intrusions. Surface joint directions
indicated a dominant NE-SW trend. The VES data revealed three to four
geoelectric layers, encompassing the topsoil (1 to 5 m depth, resistivity: 100
Ωm to 300 Ωm), the weathered layer (in the 3-layer system) or fractured layer
(in the 4-layer system), and the fresh basement rock characterized by infinite
resistivity. The shallow weathered layers (3 to 30 m thickness) are believed to
hold aquiferous potential. Hydrogeological interpretation, facilitated by 2D
resistivity models, delineated water horizons trapped within clayey sand and
weathered/fractured formations. Notably, the aquifer resistivity range was found
to be between 3 - 35 m and 100 - 300 Ωm, signifying a promising aquifer positioned at
depths of 40 to 88 m. This aligns with corroborative static water level
measurements. Given this, we recommend drilling depths of a minimum of 80 m to
ensure the acquisition of sufficient and sustainable water supplies. The final
groundwater potential zones map derived from this study is expected to serve as
an invaluable guide for prospective groundwater developers and relevant
authorities in formulating effective water resource management plans. By
effectively tackling water scarcity challenges in Lapan Gwari Community, this
integrated approach demonstrates its potential for application in similar
regions facing comparable hydrogeological concerns.