Renewal rate estimation of groundwater based on radioactive tracers (3H, 14C) in an unconfined aquifer in a semi-arid area, Iullemeden Basin, Niger

Estimation of groundwater recharge in arid and semi-arid areas is difficult due to the low amount and variability of recharge. A combination of radiotracers investigation based on simple mixing models allows direct investigation of relatively long-term renewal rates of an aquifer. The recharge process of the shallow Continental Terminal aquifer in the Iullemeden basin (Niger) was investigated using a geochemical and isotopic approach. This study investigates the area in the one degree square of Nianey (13–14°N, 2–3°E). In this area, recharge is highly heterogeneous and mainly occurs through a drainage system of temporary streams and pools during the rainy season. Heterogeneity of the recharge is reflected through the wide variation in electrical conductivity and oxygen-18 content of the groundwater. The carbon-14 activity range for most of the groundwater falls between 69 and 126 pmc showing pre and post-aerial thermonuclear test recharge. Two renewal rate models have been investigated: the first one models a well-mixed reservoir and the second one is derived from a piston flow model, in which mixing is in equal proportions. Major ions in tritium data analyses allow exclusion of non-representative samples and confirm the carbon-14 renewal rate estimations. Both models give similar results for the relatively low renewal rate investigated in the area. Using carbon-14, the mean annual rates of groundwater renewal range from 3 to 0.03% of the aquifer volume with a median of 0.1%. Assuming the median is representative of the overall renewal rate of the area, the recharge rate is in the order of 5 mm a−1. The shallow aquifer recharge extends from the last small humid period (around 4000 a) up to now. High recharge rates are found in depressions whereas low recharge occurs below the plateaux.