Hydrochemical characteristics and quality assessment of shallow groundwater under intensive agriculture practices in arid region, Qena, Egypt

Abstract Monitoring groundwater quality and analyzing geochemical processes are very crucial in dry environments, especially areas with intense agriculture inadequate irrigation management systems. A total of forty-one samples were collected from the study area analyzed for major ions chemistry. The results analyses used to investigate make assessments. hydrogeochemical characteristics revealed a highly mineralized Na + –Cl − water type, implying that majority chemically unfit human consumption. Based on parameters this study, such as sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), soluble percentage (SSP), residual carbonate (RSC), magnesium hazard (MH), permeability index (PI), Kelley's (KR), suitability purposes is good moderately good. Also they may reflect some alkaline threats soil indicated by SSP KR. salinity recognized high expected increase expansion irrigation; hence, special control required. Nitrate widely contaminant area. nitrate concentrations range 0.1 256.8 mg/L, more than 30% exceeding safe drinking limit 50 mg/L. main concern average concentration will likely continue Groundwater monitoring, terms both quantity, essential sustainable management.