STUDIES ON CONJUCTIVE USE OF SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER SOURCES IN EFON-ALAAYE, EKITI STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Water is a social good whose importance to life cannot be over-emphasized. Conjunctive use is a water management strategy for optimum usage of available sources of water in a sustainable manner taking into consideration a wide range of factors (environmental, technical, social and ecological implication of water extraction and its usage). This research seeks to design an acceptable water management scheme based on standard engineering practice that will assist towards solving the problems of water shortage in Efon-Alaaye, Ekiti State. Preliminary investigations were conducted on nearby surface water bodies within the research area while streamflow measurements were carried out. Average pumping rate was used to determine the discharge volume of the developed groundwater source. Water samples from these sources were taken and a variety of analyses were conducted to determine their potability. A cost effective collection, transfer and storage was designed based on engineering judgement, ecological effects and proximity to water source and service point. The concept of phase development was also suggested based on population forecast, cost of the water scheme and possibility of improved infrastructure. It was found that six (6) out of the nine (9) water sources were potable while the other three sources contain Escherichia coli. Due to the topography and relief formation of the research area, turbidity and conductivity parameters were significantly high. However, these deficiencies can be managed using primary treatment techniques. It was recommended that stream bank should be protected with protective cover while grazing and agricultural activities should be discouraged around water bodies;