Spatial variability of saturated hydraulic conductivity in selected ponds of the Rohilkhand region, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) is a fundamental parameter controlling infiltration, seepage, and groundwater recharge in pond ecosystems. This study assessed the spatial variability of Ks in thirteen selected ponds of the Rohilkhand region, Uttar Pradesh, India, using the Inverse Auger Hole Method at three locations within each pond. Measured Ks values ranged from 0.06 to 7.55 cm h- 1, indicating substantial spatial variability, with the highest value recorded at Tumadiya pond and the lowest at Changgeri pond. Mean Ks values varied between 0.32 and 2.95 cm h- 1. Descriptive statistics revealed considerable heterogeneity in pond-bed hydraulic properties, while two-factor ANOVA without replication showed significant differences among sampling locations (p = 0.02) but non-significant differences among ponds (p = 0.13). Hydraulic conductivity decreased consistently from Location-1 to Locations-2 and 3, highlighting the influence of within-pond variability. These findings emphasize the importance of multi-location field measurements for reliable estimation of hydraulic properties and groundwater recharge assessment in alluvial pond ecosystems.