A Summary Analysis of Groundwater Vulnerability to Climate Variability and Anthropic Activities in the Haouz Region, Morocco

Abstract

The Haouz aquifer is undergoing climatic aridity and anthropic pressure largely related to the agricultural sector. In this study, special attention was given to the main factors that have a direct impact on the fluctuations of the piezometric level (PL). Different statistical analyses (cross-correlations, PCA, cascading analysis) of the relationship between these factors were applied here. The results identify three distinct groundwater operating systems. The first is manifested in areas dominated by groundwater irrigation. The correlation is insignificant between the PL and surface water (R ≤ ±0.3). The natural balance of the water cycle is then disturbed causing a pronounced deficit in the PL. The second system is perceptible in areas dominated by irrigation from surface water, while the third system is noticeable in Bour areas, cultivated in rainfed mode. For both systems, the hydrological cycle is preserved, and the contribution of surface water to groundwater recharge is noticeable (±0.4 ≤ R ≤ ±1). Drought transfer between the water cycle components occurs in a cascading process for both systems. These results can help decision-makers to identify the risks related to groundwater vulnerability to climatic variability and overexploitation in the Haouz region, allowing for the promotion of efficient groundwater management.

Three Decades of Groundwater Drought Research: Evolution and Trends

“…In many parts of the world, groundwater is increasingly used for their drinkingwater supply and irrigation [2,3]. It constitutes a primary or alternative source of water, particularly during periods of drought when surface water is less frequent, which leads to water table depletion and its long-term deterioration [4]. In order to acquire more knowledge of this phenomenon, numerous authors have conducted research on groundwater drought.…”

An Investigation of Recharging Groundwater Levels through River Ponding: New Strategy for Water Management in Sutlej River

“…The results showed that the groundwater rose by more than 4 m in the areas adjacent to the river (Figure 2). Several other studies also established the same manner where groundwater level fluctuation based on the influence of hydraulic structure or surface water [15][16][17]. The alarming groundwater depletion situation is believed to be a constraint in the economic growth of countries with heavy dependence on surface-and groundwater usage [18].…”