Spatio-temporal evolution of the physico-chemical water characteristics of the Sebaou river valley (Great Kabylia, Algeria)

In this study we present the most comprehensive survey of the hydrogeological properties of this region reported to date, including the spatio-temporal variation of physico-chemical variables as studied by principal component analysis. This method allowed us to confirm the principal chemical facies and to differentiate the waters of the middle and upper Sebaou river from the waters of river tributaries, specifically the Aissi and Bougdoura rivers. The quality of these water resources is declining as a result of local development and so this study is expected to provide a valuable resource for future water management strategies in the region.