Assessment of AL-HOCEIMA groundwater quality

The aim of this research is to assess the physicochemical and bacteriological quality of groundwater from various collective water points (wells and springs) located in the Al-Hoceima region (Morocco). These waters are used by a large rural and urban population for domestic consumption. It is essential to assess the fecal contamination of these waters in particular the presence of fecal indicator germs as well as their effects and health risks. Two sampling campaigns were carried out between 2018 and 2021 during the wet and dry seasons respectively. A total of fifty-two groundwater samples were collected during the wet season under appropriate conditions and analyzed according to Moroccan standards. The results showed that the quality of the water from the sources and wells monitored in the study area did not comply with the World Health Organization guideline and the Moroccan drinking water standard of zero (0) colony-forming units (CFU) per 100 ml for BC E. Coli and EI respectively. Fecal contamination of groundwater is therefore confirmed by the presence of these germs.