Determination of groundwater potential in obiaruku and environs using surface geoelectric sounding

• Published in: The Environmentalist Vol. 26; no. 4; pp. 301 - 308
• Main Authors: Oseji, J. O., Asokhia, M. B., Okolie, E. C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lausanne Springer Nature B.V 01.12.2006
• Subjects: Aquifers; Boreholes; Clay; Confined aquifers; Correlation analysis; Drinking water; Environmentalists; Geology; Groundwater; Groundwater flow; Groundwater potential; Lithology; Local government; Rivers; Sediments; Soils; Studies; Unconfined aquifers; Nigeria; Ghana
• ISSN: 0251-1088; 2194-5403; 1573-2991; 2194-5411
• DOI: 10.1007/s10669-006-0159-x

The interpretation of ten resistivity curves in Obiaruku and environs indicates that the area has a great groundwater potential. Correlation of the curves with the lithologic log from a nearby borehole in Ghana quarters, reveals the lithologic succession as an extensive sandy unit between the range of 20 m and 136 m. The medium grained sand unit, which is the aquiferous zone, has a resistivity range of between 300 omega m and 600 omega m. The result of the interpreted data and the lithologic log from the borehole indicates three to five geoelectric layers except at Adonishaka, which has a confined aquifer in the third layer and Umukwata that has a confined aquifer in the second layer, the study area generally has an unconfined aquifer, which is in the second layer. In the event of pollution, the groundwater may be contaminated. Sinking of water borehole is not recommended in these areas. Boreholes for potable water are therefore recommended at locations within Adonishaka and Umukwata areas. The present study acts as a guide for future groundwater exploration and exploitation. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]