3D geological modeling of Gareb-Bouareg basin in northeast Morocco

Abstract The Gareb-Bouareg region located in northeastern Morocco is characterized by a semi-arid climate with low rainfall. The unconfined aquifer of this region supplies water for agricultural and industrial activities. This study aims to develop a 3D model of the geology that adequately describes the observed structure and geometry of the aquifer in this coastal region. The geological formations considered during modeling are of Quaternary and Miocene ages. The input parameters include data from (i) 70 boreholes, (ii) four geological maps, and (iii) a digital terrain model. After processing, the data were subjected to a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform and 3D modeling software. The geological model comprises three geological Quaternary age layers (thin silt, limestone, and gravels silts) and two Miocene layers (marls and volcanic rock). The Quaternary geologic formations constitute the unconfined aquifer of the Gareb-Bouareg basin, while Miocene marls form the bedrock of the aquifer. The piezometric map shows that the water table lies at the following depths: 1.4 m from the ground in the vicinity of Nador Lagoon in the north of the region, 3.5 m at Mount Arouit in the center of the region, and 98 m north of the foothills of Kebdana in the south. The map also reveals the flow of groundwater from the south and southwest to the north and northeast.