3rd TAGRA

This study evaluated mineralized groundwater potential for sustaining the Ayazma Travertine using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and topographic data. Low-resistivity anomalies identified along three ERT profiles were interpreted together with a previously observed iron-rich mineralized water discharge near point S. Anomalies occur at profile distances of 65–90 m on E-1, 105–145 m on E-2, and 95–115 m on E-3, indicating a conductive zone within the same general area. Resistivity on E-2 decreases to approximately 7–20 Ωm. These findings identify the vicinity of point S as a priority target for exploratory drilling. The estimated primary target depth is 15–30 m; drilling to 40–50 m is recommended to investigate potentially fractured and permeable surrounding intervals. The feasibility of conveying water from the potential source to point S′ at the travertine site was also assessed preliminarily. Although point S is approximately 3 m higher than point S′ along a route of about 650 m, intervening topographic rises mean that gravity-fed conveyance cannot be established from endpoint elevations alone. Pipeline design must account for hydraulic losses and air accumulation. A siphon system may be examined, with low-head pumping considered if gravity-fed conveyance proves infeasible. The interpretation of the ERT anomalies as mineralized groundwater, sustainable source yield, and suitability of the water for travertine deposition require confirmation through drilling, discharge measurements, and hydrogeochemical analyses.