Surface and groundwater hydrochemistry in the mid-Gregory Rift, Kenya: first impressions and potential implications for geothermal systems

Abstract

The University of Glasgow has a long tradition of scientific endeavour in the Gregory Rift Valley. This paper details some of the history and inspiration behind current hydrological efforts and details results from a 2016 field excursion to this region. A range of surface and ground waters were sampled and analysed for physical, chemical, and stable isotope composition as scoping investigation into geothermal-related hydrological systems. The results allow us to make some initial observations that will be followed up by additional multi-seasonal data collection. Our initial results show clear chemical and isotopic signals for river, lake, hot spring and Menengai geothermal well waters.