Journal of Natural Sciences

Assessment of the Exploitation Rate and Sustainability of an Alluvial Plain in Southwestern Burkina Faso
Nestor Fiacre Compaoré, Amagana Emmanuel Dara, Mahamadou Koïta, Djamilatou Mody Dao, Hamma Fabien Yonli

Abstract
The alluvial aquifer of Karfiguéla in the Comoé province (southwestern Burkina Faso) is increasingly being used for irrigation. Despite its crucial importance for farmers, the exploitation rate of this aquifer and its water supply are poorly known. In this context the assessment of the exploitation rate and sustainability of the Karfiguéla alluvial aquifer was initiated for a better management of groundwater resources in the Southwest of Burkina Faso. The assessment of the exploitation rate requires both the evaluation of groundwater extraction and recharge. These two parameters were determined respectively by the quantification of groundwater extraction volumes for crop needs and water balance methods. The annual recharge is substantially identical to the annual renewed water volume of the aquifer. This recharge is around 1,885,000 m3 or about 4% of the average annual rainfall. Groundwater extraction is low and represents 10% of the renewed water volume. So, the alluvial aquifer of Karfiguéla has a sufficient recharge to compensate groundwater extraction. The sustainability of its exploitation does not seem to be threatened.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jns.v5n2a2