Temporal Analysis of Groundwater Quality in Al Hoceima, Morocco: A Comparative Study of a Well Over Two Periods

¹ Faculty of Science and Technology of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Department of Earth Sciences / Geosciences research team on natural risks (Georisk), Morocco.
² Ecole Nationale des Sciences Appliquées d’Al Hoceima, Université Abdelmalek Essaâdi, Département de Génie Civil de l’Energie et de l’Environnement / Laboratoire des Sciences Appliquées / Unité de Gestion de l’Eau et de l’Environnement, Maroc.
³ Materials Engineering and Sustainable Energy, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco.

Abstract

This study assesses the groundwater quality of the Ghiis Nekkour aquifer in northern Morocco, focusing on a specific well in the Al Hoceima region. This water source is vital for the local population. The research compares the groundwater quality during two distinct periods and characterizes its physicochemical and bacteriological properties. The study reveals that physicochemical analysis shows moderate water quality, with electrical conductivity values ranging from 2441 μS/cm to 2456 μS/cm, and turbidity levels below 0.61 NTU. Chemical analysis indicates calcium concentrations ranging from 181 mg/l to 195 mg/l, magnesium concentrations from 136 mg/l to 143 mg/l, ammonium concentrations of 0.05 mg/l, chloride concentrations from 453 mg/l to 478 mg/l, and nitrate concentrations of 40 mg/l. Bicarbonate concentrations vary from 789 mg/l to 856 mg/l. However, bacteriological analysis shows water contamination by coliform bacteria, intestinal enterococci, and Escherichia coli. The study emphasizes the urgent need to take measures to remedy this contamination and ensure the safety of the water source for the region’s inhabitants.