GROUNDWATER VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT USING ELECTRICAL RESISTIVITY METHOD: A CASE STUDY OF FUPRE CAMPUS

ABSTRACT This study investigates the vulnerability of aquifers at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) through the use of Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) to determine subsurface resistivity and longitudinal conductance. The aim was to assess the aquifer's protective capacity and susceptibility to contamination. A total of five VES points were surveyed at two different locations inside the premises of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) in Ugbomoro community in Delta State. Five VES points (VES 1 to VES 5) were surveyed. The resistivity data were presented as VES curves interpreted quantitatively by computer iteration using the WinResist Software to obtain the first order geo-electric parameters, each delineating five geo-electric layers with varying, thickness, depth, lithology and resistivity values, key aquifer zones, which were used to calculate the longitudinal unit conductance for each VES point. The values ranged from 0.041986 mhos at VES 1 to 0.0022135 mhos at VES 5, with an average value of 0.0551924 mhos. Vulnerability assessment showed that 20% of the aquifers in the study area had weak protective capacity, while 80% had poor protective capacity. These results indicate that the aquifers in the study area are vulnerable to contamination, as the protective layers are insufficient to shield them from surface pollutants. The study recommends implementing, continuous groundwater monitoring, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate contamination risks. Further research and expansion of VES surveys are suggested to improve the management and protection of groundwater resources in the region.