International Journal of Environmental Science, Botany and Zoology

Vol. 1, No. 2, December 2015

Table of Contents

Articles

OPEN DUMPSITE AND ITS EFFECT ON GROUNDWATER FLOW DIRECTION IN IDOMI, YAKURR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF CROSS RIVER STATE – NIGERIA

Authors: Eni, D. Imoke, Ibiang, J. Lekam and Digha, Opaminola N.

ABSTRACT

The impact of dumpsite on groundwater hydrology in Idomi community was undertaken in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State – Nigeria. A total of seventeen (17) hand-dug wells (HDWs) were assessed for the study. Data on the location and elevation of dumpsite for the 17 HDWs were obtained using a hand-held Global Positioning System (GPS). The depth and static water level (SWL) of the wells were collected with the aid of a 15m long rope tied to a weight of (10kg) and a measuring tape. The rope with the weight was suspended into the well and removed, then measured with the measuring tape. Data on hand-dug wells’ location, elevation, depth and static water level (SWL) were pre-processed and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2010, Surfer and ArcGIS software. Results obtained showed that the HDWs depth in Idomi community ranged between 1.46m and 12.12m. The SWL ranged from 0.40m to 4.88m with a mean value of 2.02m. The 2D and 3D models of groundwater flow direction showed that water flowed from higher elevation and pressure gradient to lower elevation and pressure gradient, that is, from north to south. The movement of dissolved contaminants (leachate) from dumpsite is possible in the direction of groundwater flow and it infiltrates groundwater reservoirs, thereby polluting the groundwater. It has been recommended that a new location should be established for solid waste disposal and there should be enforcement to stop the locals from dumping at the old dumpsite because of its effect on groundwater within the study location.

Keywords: Effect, dumpsite, groundwater, infiltration, contamination