POTENTIAL SOURCES AND MITIGATION MEASURES FOR NITRATE CONTAMINATION USING GIS AND GROUNDWATER VULNERABILITY ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY OF YABAD EASTREN WELL (PALESTINE)
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Date
2025-02-04
Authors
Asaf, Ahmad
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Publisher
An-Najah National University
Abstract
The main source of fresh water for Palestinians is groundwater. Monitoring and evaluating its quantity and quality are essential. Recent research has shown that the nitrate contamination of the Eocene Aquifer's (EA) continues to trend upward. High fertilizer use, wastewater seepage are the main cause of nitrate contamination of groundwater. The problem has appeared in Yabad Eastern Well, where the nitrate concentration exceeds the allowable limit according to World Health Organization (WHO) and Palestinian guidelines. This research aims to identify the source of nitrate contamination for the well and to recommend the most relevant management options.
It is important to understand this problem by employing the proper methodology. The methodology consists of five steps, starting with studying the historical nitrate contamination of the well. Samples taken from the surrounding wells show that the nitrate concentration is below the Maximum Contamination Level (MCL), and this indicated that the problem had been limited to the well. The study area relevant to the well was determined based on many considerations in order to figure out the contamination occurrence. The research analyzed the groundwater flow direction to determine upstream and downstream areas using ArcGIS. The vulnerability of groundwater to contamination was identified to determine the potential locations of access for the contaminants to aquifer. The assessment of vulnerability was done by using the Geology, Overlying materials, Depth to groundwater (GOD) method.
By evaluating the variables affecting contamination at the well, different layers were overlaid. Each layer represents a specific variable, such as groundwater flow direction, vulnerability, and land use. This process helped identify the areas most exposed to contamination. Activities in these areas were classified based on their potential to pollute the aquifer with nitrate. The contamination pathways were also analyzed.
The results show that the old town was the most vulnerable location within the study area. This area suffers from high population and poor sewer system. Finally, this research recommends establishing a sewer network. This research suggests utilizing the isotopic method for future studies related to this case to better track the contamination sources for Yabad Eastern Well.