Interpretation of structural controls of ground water flow using geophysical techniques in the region South of Lake Nakuru (Delamere-Enderit area)

Abstract

Water is one of the vital elements all over the world and due to several factors such as over exploitation, water resources are steadily decreasing. This study is therefore aimed at characterizing the nature of the shallow subsurface infiltration area by applying Electrical Resistivity Tomography and Magnetic methods to understand the conduits and channels through which ground water reaches the aquifer. The objective of this study is to determine structural set up of the Delamere-Enderit area and help in interpreting their complexity in controlling ground water flow. The subsurface geoelectric survey is conducted using Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) in two dimension. Inversion technique is employed in the processing of ERT data. In addition magnetic methods are also employed to identify anomalous zones that include faults and fissures. Using Euler Deconvolution Software, a magnetic map and magnetic profiles are obtained to highlight this. Water bearing rocks are mainly the volcanic sands which host the main aquifer and volcanoclastic sediments that host perched aquifers which are responsible for lateral flow of water. Fracturing is evident in the area from both electrical and magnetic studies. The ERT and magnetic geophysical methods above mentioned are elaborated in this report.