δ34S, δ18O, and δ2H-δ18O as an Approach for Settling the Question of Groundwater Salinization in Neogene Basins: The North of Morocco in Focus

Authors

Mohammed Elgettafi, Université Mohammed Premier Oujda
Malak Elmeknassi, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University
Abdenabi Elmandour, Mohamed VI Museum for the Civilization of Water in Morocco
Mahjoub Himi, Université Abdelmalek Essaadi
Juan M. Lorenzo, Louisiana State University
Albert Casas, Universitat de Barcelona

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-1-2022

Abstract

Neogene plains around the Mediterranean basin are characterized by considerable groundwater salinization. Some studies have misidentified seawater intrusion as the main source of salinity. Across northern Morocco, we gathered δ¹⁸OSO4 and δ³⁴SSO4 data from coastal and inland aquifers, Messinian marls, and volcanic products. Differences in the isotopic composition between Messinian marls and some groundwater in all aquifer samples indicate that salinization in groundwater is a consequence of dissolution of Messinian evaporite deposits; nevertheless, modern agriculture and wastewater strongly influence depletion in levels of δ³⁴SSO4. Our novel approach enables effective investigation of processes governing salinity in Neogene basins to support more informed water resource management and governance.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Water Switzerland

Recommended Citation

Elgettafi, M., Elmeknassi, M., Elmandour, A., Himi, M., Lorenzo, J., & Casas, A. (2022). δ34S, δ18O, and δ2H-δ18O as an Approach for Settling the Question of Groundwater Salinization in Neogene Basins: The North of Morocco in Focus. Water Switzerland, 14 (21) https://doi.org/10.3390/w14213404