Integrated GIS-based and geophysical techniques in groundwater potential zonation: a case study of Jos North local government area

Groundwater is the primary water source for domestic and industrial use in Jos North local government area. Being an area classified to be a semi-arid environment, groundwater is a vital source of livelihood, and this necessitates research on the integration of advanced techniques for groundwater exploration. This study aims to delineate, identify, model, and map groundwater potential zones in the study area using geographical information systems (GIS) and geophysical investigation to achieve results for groundwater development planning in the city. Data, including Landsat imagery, digital elevation model, and vertical electrical sounding (VES), were used to generate thematic data models for groundwater suitability mapping. Lineament analysis and land use/land cover analysis were generated using the Landsat imagery, and the digital elevation model was used to generate slope, drainage network, and geomorphological analysis. Geophysical data were generated across the study area using the VES field technique at 24 locations. Thematic maps of factors contributing to groundwater availability were generated, analyzed, and reclassified for further integration. The reclassified data were integrated into the ArcGIS workspace, where statistical computation was done using the weighted overlay method to generate a groundwater potential map. The generated groundwater potential map revealed four zones classified as very good, good, moderate, and poor, covering areas of 0.63%, 48.11%, 47.19%, and 4.07% respectively.