Aquifer recharge; Burkina Faso; Effect; Multidimensional approach; Runoff water management; Water spreading weirs; Geology; Earth-Surface Processes
Abstract :
[en] In recent years, water spreading weirs have been implemented on watercourses in West Africa. This study investigates the hydrological impact of water spreading weirs (WSWs) in the semi-arid Wedbila watershed of Burkina Faso, a region challenged by soil degradation and scarce water resources. The study employs an integrated, multidisciplinary approach combining in situ monitoring of surface water levels, soil moisture at multiple depths, and piezometric fluctuations to capture the influence of WSWs on soil water dynamics and aquifer recharge. Comparative analyses between zones impacted by water spreading and control zones provide a robust empirical basis—making this one of the few West African studies to comprehensively combine these measurements in assessing WSW effects on infiltration and groundwater recharge. Results demonstrate that WSWs significantly enhance soil moisture retention near the surface and notable rises in piezometric levels observed during and after flood events. Correlation analysis of monitored parameters indicated that groundwater recharge is dependent on rainfall distribution, surface water levels, and soil properties. Using soil water balance, the annual infiltration calculated in the spreading zone was 568 mm, significantly exceeding that observed outside the spreading zone. Cumulative infiltration during spreading periods accounted for 57 % of annual infiltration. This water spreading weirs positive impact demonstrates, contingent upon spreading duration, topography and soil characteristics. Importantly, the WSWs as a low-cost managed aquifer recharge (MAR) solution suitable for data-poor, semi-arid regions like Burkina Faso. By enhancing the landscape's capacity to capture scarce and erratic rainfall, WSWs contribute to climate resilience and agricultural productivity in vulnerable rural communities facing increasing water scarcity due to climate change. They serve as a complementary technique for raising the groundwater level when conditions are favorable in Burkina Faso.
This study was made possible thanks to the financial support of Wallonia Brussels International of Belgium and the logistical support of the Permanent Secretariat for the Integrated Management of Water Resources of Burkina Faso specially Moustapha CONGO. We would like to thank them all.The authors would like to acknowledge the support of the Ministry of Water and in particular the Permanent Secretariat of Integrate Water Resources Management (SPGIRE) in Burkina Faso, which provided the necessary logistics for the investigation and data collection. They thank KOUDOUGOU Audrey, intern at SPGIRE in 2020\u20132021, and the SPGIRE drivers for the instigations and data collection in the field.
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