Abstract

The study on water resources assessment carried out in the Upper Manya Krobo district of the Eastern region, Ghana with the sole objective of identifying feasible options for water supply augmentation to communities in the district. The methodology consisted of inventory of boreholes and hand dug wells, rivers, streams, pipe schemes. Surveys conducted on the hydrogeology, geomorphology and buildings (roof) to determine the prospect of constructing underground dams and rain harvesting schemes. Interviews as well as sampling of groundwater and laboratory measurements determined the quality status of groundwater. Also carried out was limited pumping test. The results showed that groundwater potential is generally low. Borehole yield varies from 0.48 m3h-1 to 12.00 m3h-1 with mean of 3.4 m3h-1 and standard deviation of 2.97 respectively. Generally, the southern half of the district seems to have relatively higher yields than the northern half. Except for the high iron concentration, which is mostly outside the WHO (2006) guideline values, other chemical constituents were generally low and within the WHO (2004), guideline limits. The potential for rain harvesting is high, however, in a few communities; sheds would need to be provided for the dual purposes of school, community centre, etc on one hand and rain harvesting system on the other. The geology and geomorphology of the district are suitable for underground dam construction, however, more detailed hydrogeological investigations are required prior to construction.