Groundwater hydrochemistry and water quality evaluation in the eastern Rif region (northern Taza, Morocco)

Groundwater is an essential resource for drinking water supply in the Eastern Rif region. However, the quality of these resources can be influenced by geological and hydrogeological conditions and human activities. This study aims to analyse the physicochemical parameters of groundwater and assess its quality in order to better understand the processes controlling its mineralisation and suitability for different uses. Seventeen groundwater samples were collected and analysed from the Eastern Rif region during the winter (January 2025) and summer (July 2025) periods for various physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity, major ions (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, HCO−3, Cl− and SO2−4) and trace metal elements. The results show that the groundwater has a calcium bicarbonate facies, reflecting the influence of the carbonate formations present in the Rif region. The mineralisation of the water is mainly linked to the dissolution of carbonate rocks and water-rock interactions. However, some of the water sources analysed show a deterioration in water quality and may be locally affected by the dissolution of geological formations, such as sulphate ions (SO2−4 = 1349 mg/L) and iron ions (Fe2+ = 1.97 mg/L), which far exceed the Moroccan standard for human consumption. This study thus contributes to a better understanding of the hydrochemistry of groundwater in the Eastern Rif and provides effective strategies for the protection and sustainable management of groundwater resources in the region.