INTEGRATED GEOPHYSICAL INVESTIGATION OF GROUNDWATER POTENTIAL AND AQUIFER VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT; A CASE STUDY OF EMIRIN COMMUNITY ADO-EKITI, SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA.

ABSTRACT This study investigates the potential for groundwater contamination in a dumpsite area using integrated geophysical methods. The research aims to identify potential aquifers, assess their vulnerability to contamination, and provide insights for sustainable groundwater management. Vertical Electrical resistivity (VES) and Dipole-dipole array nethod was employed to delineate subsurface structures and identify potential contamination zones. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of groundwater resources in complex environments and inform decision-making for groundwater protection and remediation. This study investigates the potential impact of the Emirin Community dumpsite on groundwater quality. The study utilized electrodes, resistivity meters, and GPS for fieldwork. Geophysical methods such as Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and 2D resistivity imaging were employed to assess subsurface conditions. The Schlumberger and dipole-dipole arrays were used to measure resistivity variations across the dumpsite. The methodology section explains the step-by-step process of data acquisition, processing, and interpretation, providing a robust framework for understanding subsurface characteristics and groundwater contamination risks. The discussion links these findings to aquifer vulnerability, groundwater flow paths, and contamination risks. This study emphasizes the importance of monitoring groundwater quality and implementing measures to protect water resources in the study area. The results indicate the presence of low resistivity zones, suggesting potential aquifer contamination. Further analysis is necessary to assess the extent of contamination and develop appropriate mitigation strategies. This study employed geophysical methods, including vertical electrical resistivity (VES), to investigate the potential impact of the Emirin Community dumpsite on groundwater quality. The research involved reconnaissance surveys, data acquisition using Schlumberger and dipole-dipole arrays. The results revealed subsurface structures, by summarizing the key findings, which indicate that the dumpsite poses a significant risk to groundwater resources. The resistivity data identified vulnerable aquifers and potential contamination zones. Based on these findings, the chapter recommends further geophysical surveys and the establishment of a groundwater monitoring network. Additionally, it advocates for improved waste management practices and policy interventions to safeguard public health and promote sustainable groundwater use in dumpsite areas.