Application of the water quality index (IQEs) to assess the quality of groudwater in the Ghiss-Nekkour aquifer, Al-Hoceima, Northern Morocco

Abstract

The determination of water quality with simple, accurate and easily understood expressions by managers and decision-makers has become a crucial situation in the environmental context, in order to help stakeholders make appropriate decisions. The aim of this study is to assess the quality of groundwater in the Ghiss-Nekkour aquifer, located in northeastern Morocco, using the Water Quality Index (WQI). The method is based on the analysis of 11 different physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, K+, HCO3-, SO2-4, Cl-, NO3-, NO-2) of this groundwater. By applying this WQI, the water was classified into four categories (Water: good quality, poor, very poor, unsuitable for consumption). The study showed that the water from most wells is unsuitable for domestic consumption and requires treatment.