Structural modeling of deep aquifers from gravity data: a case study of the Isly watershed, region of Guenfouda, Morocco

Groundwater in arid areas is critical for drinking water supplies, irrigated agriculture, and the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems. In the semi-arid region of Guenfouda, shallow aquifers are vital for human habitation and agriculture. Many settlements acquire their water from wells and springs. However, these wells are particularly susceptible to seasonal fluctuations and may be depleted during dry periods. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the hydrogeology of deep aquifers is required. Using analysis of geologic and hydrogeologic data in a GIS environment, this study examined the efficiency of the gravity model in investigating the structure of deep aquifers. A combination of filtering techniques was applied on the gravity map. The developed model shows the general configuration of the Jurassic aquifer, which gradually dips to the north and northeast to a depth of about 2280 m. Statistical analysis revealed considerable spatial coherence between fractures and compartments of the aquifer. Consequently, the structural model obtained from gravity data can greatly improve our understanding of the aquifer structure in the survey area.