Sustainability of Shallow Aquifer in Rumuohia Community, Emohua L.GA, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Around the world, groundwater is a key source of water. Because its reliance is growing, it is critical to ensure that a sufficient supply of high-quality drinking water is available. We explored the shallow aquifer in Rumuohia community in Emohua local government area, Rivers State, Nigeria, with the goal of using seismic refraction to delineate depth to the shallow aquifer and geological structure of the terrain at five selected areas. The result of the research reveals two strata with sand-gravel and clay lithologies. Layer 1 is clay, with an average velocity of 274.83 m/s and a thickness range of 4.88m to 9.98m at an average of 7m in all five locations. Layer 2 is composed up of sandy clay in Mina 1 and Mina 3. Clay is found in Mina 2, while sand with gravel (dry) is found in Mina 4 and Mina 5, implying a potential aquifer with an average velocity of 422.63 m/s. The presence of sand indicates a productive aquifer, while clay acts as a stopper for the sand, which is prone to compaction due to overburden pressure. The study area is generally a favorable location for a borehole with a high likelihood of providing drinkable water.