The Study of Hydrogeological and Hydrogeochemical Characteristics of Abhar Plain, Zanjan Province, Iran

Protection of water resources, particularly groundwater resources is one of the most important issues in modern societies. On the other hand, the management of these resources plays an important role in stable development, and it requires accurate and comprehensive studies resources. In this study, comprehensive climatological, geological and hydrogeological (quantitative and qualitative) investigations were carried out to establish a hydrogeologal framework of Abhar Plain. Based on geophysical investigations, well log data and field survey, Abhar aquifer is an unconfined system and is mainly covered by recent alluvial deposits. The hydrogeological investigations showed that the aquifer is in danger by overdraft and negative water budget. On the contrary, the hydrochemical data are in an acceptable range for drinking and agricultural usages based on the available standards. The final results of this research can be useful for management strategies including aquifer development planning, groundwater modeling and determination of safe yield for water supply.