Quantification Et Evolution Du Bilan De La Nappe Karstique De Saida (Nord-Ouest De l’Algerie)

Abstract

The Northwest of Algeria, characterized by a semi-arid climate has seen in recent decades its surface and ground water potential decrease due to the scarcity of rainfall. Demographic pressure has increased the difficulties in the management of water resources, leading to problems of water scarcity in several areas of the country, especially in low-rainfall areas. From the hydrogeological point of view, the study area contains many karstic springs with great importance, which flows can exceed 50 l /s during flood periods. Aquifer recharge occurs primarily by rainwater.The main objective of this study was to evaluate the water balance of the karst aquifer situated near the city of Saida (North-West of Algeria) and to follow its evolution on several decades. In this region, the karst groundwater is important for drinking water supply, irrigation and industrial units.This approach to assessment will be based on the water balance equation by involving precipitation, evapotranspiration, infiltration and groundwater flow. The total volume of the groundwater reserves obtained from the balance method represent 45 million m3. These reserves have decreased with time.