Evaluation of Groundwater Potential Using Electrical Resistivity Method, in University of Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

The deployment of electrical resistivity method in mapping the subsurface has been instrumental globally in understanding groundwater occurrence. In this study Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) interpreted results have been instrumental in mapping the possible structural controls of groundwater in University of Eldoret. The apparent resistivity data collected from the area, was inverted by use of the AGI Earth Imager ID inversion automated computer program, resulting unto resistivities and thicknesses of geoelectric models. The analyzed VES data was further interpreted by curve matching technique whose results indicates the existence of curve types; H-type ρ1> ρ2 <ρ3; A-typeρ1<ρ2<ρ3; representing 3-Layer subsurface. There are four points mapped with each having five VES points, and the analysis shows distinctly a change from point to point. The analysis in general shows a deeper aquifer from the depth of about 206 metres to 251 metres. There also exists shallow aquifers though presents different depths from point to point, indicating a possible undulation in the subsurface which can be explained by possible existence of old land surfaces.