Groundwater quality assessment of the Boudinar Basin (Morocco) for drinking and irrigation purpose

Abstract

This study evaluates groundwater quality in the Boudinar Basin, northeastern Morocco, for irrigation and drinking purposes. In April 2024, sixteen GPS-referenced tap water samples directly supplied from local groundwater wells were collected across the Boudinar Basin. Major ions and physico-chemical parameters were analyzed using HI83399 and DR 3900 photometers, and a multiparameter probe, while hydrochemical facies and water suitability were evaluated using Piper, Stiff, Stabler, and Wilcox diagrams. Water Quality Index was calculated from twelve parameters. Hydrochemical diagrams indicate that the water is predominantly of the Ca-HCO3 type, with calcium as the dominant cation and bicarbonate as the dominant anion. Magnesium, sodium, potassium, and chloride are present in lower proportions, reflecting water–rock interactions and potential anthropogenic influences. While pH levels are safe for drinking, salinity exceeds World Health Organization and Moroccan standards in several samples. High calcium concentrations affect water hardness, and aluminum contamination is found in five samples. Other parameters like sodium, nitrates, chloride, and potassium are within acceptable limits. While 37.5% of the samples are suitable for irrigation, 56.25% are poor and require soil drainage and periodic leaching to prevent the accumulation of salts within the root zone. The Water Quality Index shows 11 samples as “Excellent,” one as “Good,” but three are “Very Poor,” and one is “Unfit for all uses.” The northern and central regions generally have good water quality, while the southern areas face localized contamination. Sustainable water management strategies, including salinity control and agricultural runoff reduction, are recommended.