Assessing the effects of mining operations on groundwater in a Semi-Arid region: A case study of Draa Sfar mine in Marrakech, Morocco

Mining is a critical economic activity, but it poses significant environmental risks including soil and water contamination. Tailings from past mining operations can contain hazardous substances that can lead to severe environmental problems if left exposed. In Morocco, the Draa Sfar is a significant base metal mine that can contribute to groundwater contamination with heavy metals, the objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of mining activities on the water table in the south of the same mine. The heavy metal analysis results indicate that all tested samples extracted from wells exceed the World Health Organization standards. The water belongs to Mg-Cl, Ca-Cl and Mg-HCO3 types and the primary cause of water mineralization is related to the dissolution of evaporable minerals, concentrations of trace elements including zinc, lead, copper and iron metals in the groundwater. The saturation indices calculated by the phreeqc model show an oversaturation and precipitation of the minerals such as Magnetite, Goethite and Hematite which are rich in iron and show an under-saturation of halite and gypsum, indicating dissolution in major ions. Proper management and restoration of tailings from past mining operations are crucial to minimize environmental impact and to ensure sustainable development in the study area.