Hydrogeochemical processes and suitability assessment of surface water in the Grouz Dam Basin, northeast Algeria

Abstract

Surface water is the principal source of water for domestic use and agricultural irrigation in Grouz Dam Basin and adjacent regions. This research aims to evaluate hydrochemical characteristics and suitability for domestic and agricultural irrigation purposes of the Grouz Dam Basin surface waters. The surface waters were categorized as alkaline hard freshwater and are classified into Na-Cl and mixed water types. The values of measured parameters are below the maximum allowable limits for drinking except for Na⁺, NO₃^2- and turbidity.  Dissolution and anthropogenic activity are the dominant hydrogeochemical processes controlled surface water chemistry. Overall, it was found that surface waters are unsuitable for drinking by cons they are suitable for irrigation. The results of this study will be useful in regional surface water management and protection.