Application of remote sensing techniques in hydrogeological mapping of parts of Bosso Area, Minna, North-Central Nigeria

Abstract

The study focuses on the hydrogeological mapping of Bosso area of Minna, Niger State using remote sensing techniques whilst considering integration of geophysical and hydrogeological investigation in a synergistic approach. Landsat enhanced thematic mapper band 4 and 7 were used for the study. The satellite imagery that was acquired from Global Land Cover Facility website was rectified and geo-referenced using various ground control points that were obtained during ground thruthing. The analysis of the imageries using ILWIS 3.3s included filtering, stretching clustering. The outcome module gives results on both the structure and the lithology of the area. Structural elements that were remotely mapped are majorly lineaments which trend NW-SE and NE-SW. These were correlated with the results of the field mapping and radial geo electric sounding results. The geological map shows principal NE-SW trending joint with minor NW-SE direction. The radial geo-electric sounding at three different locations as interpreted from the anisotropic polygons showed NW-SE, NE-SW and N-S fracture directions respectively. There are three basic rock types that are represented in this region which include; N-S trending schist in the western part and around the water bodies (Bosso Dam and River Chanchaga), granite in the Northern and Southern parts of the area and gneiss in the central part. The use of remote sensing in hydrogeological investigation has been found very effective in the area. It has saved time, reduced risk of project failure and was cost effective when compared to other traditional mapping techniques especially when used alongside geophysical method.