The Effect of Boreholes on the Traditional Modes of Distribution of Irrigation Water in the South of Algeria, Case Study Foggaras of Timimoun

Abstract

In the heart of the Algerian Sahara, Timimoun is characterized by arid climate, marked by low rainfall, high temperatures, causing heavy losses by evaporation, these climatic conditions are the cause of the scarcity of surface water in these areas, hence the need to exploit water from underground sources to cover the water needs of the population, agriculture and industry. Geological and hyrological studies, Carried out on the studey area allowed us to see that the Albian aquifer is considered the only source for fresh drinking water. Modern technology has allowexploitation and the implementation of groundwater the implementation of severed al deep wells without worrying about the future of this non-renewable source. The traditional irrigation system "Foggara" in the Algerian Sahara allows passage from a nomadic to sedentary. The people gathered around water sources that are located in areas of natural outlets of the water table; created oases. The study of drainage mechanism of the waters of the Albian aquifer, at the Foggara in the study region, we clearly indicate the causes of drawdown of Foggara, as a result of neglecting and the lowering of the groundwater level, because of over-exploitation.