HAPEX-Sahel

Groundwater level measurements taken over a 4-year period from an extensive network of wells and boreholes within the HAPEX-Sahel (Hydrologic Atmospheric Pilot Experiment in the Sahel) degree square (south Niger), together with existing data, have provided an insight into infiltration and recharge processes taking place in the porous phreatic aquifer of the Continental Terminal formation. Despite high spatial and temporal variability of aquifer response to rainfall (rises of between 0 and 9 m are recorded), a pattern of recharge can be recognised. Aquifer responses vary from site to site, but the type of response at any single point tends to be consistent from year to year. Recharge is dominated by infiltration from temporary drainage networks (pools and streams) and aquifer response depends to a large extent on aquifer hydraulic characteristics and distance from the nearest infiltrating zone. In many wells, for which data extending back to 1987 is available, water levels show a consistent year by year rise. This is interpreted as a process of aquifer recovery following the severe drought of the 1970s and early 1980s, though part may also be attributable to changing patterns of land management (e.g. woodland clearance). Initial estimates of regional recharge are from 50-60 mm/y, or in other words about 10% of annual rainfall. The figure is supported by other methods of investigation (hydrochemical analyses ; water budgets of pools). (Résumé d'auteur