ASSESSMENT OF WATER LEVELS VARIATIONS OF SHALLOW WELLS IN KUMBOTSO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assesses and analyze the groundwater potentials of shallow wells in Kumbotso Local Government Area, Kano State, by leveraging geologic and topographic data. The research utilizes recuperation (recovery) tests, monthly groundwater level monitoring data, and well coordinates as primary data sources. The grid sampling technique was employed, resulting in forty-five (45) sampling points. However, only three (3) points located at Challawa axis lacked wells due to the presence of hard rock formations. The results indicate that the topography of the northern and eastern parts of the area exhibits very high altitude, with elevation decreasing from the northern to the southern part. The study classifies certain areas as having very high seasonal variations of water level, with fluctuations hardly exceeding 4 meters. Specifically, the mean water level is recorded as 15.03 meters during the dry season and 11.73 meters during the rainy season. Similarly, the study identifies other areas falling under high, moderate, and low categories, each exhibiting distinct seasonal variations of water level. Considering areas with hard rock formations, like Challawa axis, the study recommends the implementation of geophysical surveys before establishing wells to ensure successful water resource exploitation.