Aquifer Prioritization for Ambient Ground Water Monitoring

摘要

Ambient ground water monitoring programs have been developed by more than half of the states in the United States in order to determine baseline ground water quality and monitor long-term water quality trends. States have focused their resources in many cases by prioritizing certain basins (ground water or watershed), major aquifers, or sensitive areas. This study focuses on development of an aquifer prioritization approach, specifically for the state of Wyoming, that considers both the complex geology and the variety of potential contaminant sources. The focus of ground water management in Wyoming is currently on protection, with particular attention to shallow aquifers most susceptible to water quality degradation from human activities. Aquifers within the state are evaluated with respect to current water use, sensitivity based upon a modification of the DRASTIC model, and potential for surface contamination from known land uses. High-priority aquifers are designated as those aquifers that serve as drinking water sources and are most susceptible to point and non-point source pollution. Using geographic information systems, ratings are then compiled to provide a sophisticated aquifer prioritization mapping system specifically developed for targeting ambient ground water monitoring efforts.