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• Groundwater recharge zones were delineated in a (semi)arid, anthropized Moroccan basin. • Land use/Land cover was integrated as a key factor controlling groundwater recharge. • Multi-source data and AHP technique were used with GIS and remote sensing tools to delineate GwR potential zones. • Stable isotopes (δ¹⁸O, δ²H) and the (LAL) were used to validate recharge maps, providing independent lines of evidence that are rarely employed in semi-arid basins. • Mountains and piedmonts are the mean potential zones contributing to groundwater recharge. • Moderate recharge zones dominate, covering over 82% of the study area. Abstract Mapping groundwater recharge potential zones (GRPZ) is essential for predicting recharge distribution and supporting aquifer management in large basins. However, previous studies have mainly relied on multiparameter approaches without validation using multiple lines of evidence. Stable isotopes, which are effective tracers of recharge sources and altitudes, have rarely been applied in semi-arid anthropized basins. Delineating GRPZ remains challenging in these regions due to limited observational data, spatial heterogeneity of recharge mechanisms, and increasing anthropogenic impacts such as urbanization and irrigation. To address these challenges, this study adopted a multi-factorial approach integrating several factors controlling water sources and infiltration processes. Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) was emphasized as a pivotal recharge factor in (semi)arid anthropized basins, reflecting the effects of urbanization, irrigation, and surface water bodies. GRPZ in the Tensift basin (Morocco) were delineated using remote sensing (Google Earth Engine), GIS, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and stable isotopes. Six recharge factors were used: rainfall (TerraClimate), LULC, lithology, lineament density, slope, and drainage density. Validation was done using stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) for groundwater samples and Local Altitudinal Line (LAL) to determine Altitudes of Groundwater recharge and sources. The findings indicated that mountains and piedmonts represent the most favorable recharge zones, consistent with previous studies. These areas receive high precipitation and seasonal snowfall, while the plains are dominated by moderate recharge potential, with localized high recharge beneath irrigated areas and low recharge beneath urban zones. The study provides a transferable framework for guiding groundwater resources management and Managed Aquifer Recharge MAR in semi-arid regions and contributes to advancing sustainable water use and climate resilience in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Farchouni et al. (Tue,) studied this question.