Assessment of the hydrochemistry, water quality, agricultural uses, and changes of groundwater over time in regions dominated with saline and sodic soils
摘要
Groundwater is the world’s largest unfrozen freshwater reserves. It is a crucial function in the hydrologic cycle; however, it has been considerably damaged by human activities. In the current study, 180 groundwaters were collected from regions dominated with saline and sodic soils. Major cations and anions along with some potentially toxic elements were measured in groundwaters. Groundwaters were classified into 5 clusters. The spatial distribution of parameters was depicted in the studied area map. The East and top West side of the studied area presented a higher concentration of elements, which are mainly from clusters 4 and 5. The concentration of most cations and anions increased in the last two decades and it led to Na–SO4 facies becoming the most repeated facies in groundwaters. Based on groundwater quality for irrigation, most groundwaters are suitable for irrigation considering the Na adsorption ratio and the permeability index; however, the groundwaters should be used cautiously as many are classified as doubtful or unsuitable for irrigation as a result of high percent Na. It is recommended that by mixing high-salinity water with low-salinity water, along with cultivation of Na-tolerance plants, the adverse effect of groundwater salinity could be decrease.