36 From Data to Decision: Integrating Geophysics, Data Systems, and Modeling for Aquifer Characterization in Data-Sparse Regions
Advances in data acquisition, management, and analytics are transforming water-resources research in semi-arid, data-sparse regions. This session highlights the integration of geophysics, data systems, and modeling, including AEM, legacy data digitization, and cloud platforms. Contributions demonstrate how advances in data collection, management, analysis, and modeling approaches improve the characterization of fresh and brackish groundwater to support management, recharge, and long-term planning.
Wednesday, 20 May 2026
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Alvarado F
From File Cabinets to Geodatabases: A Century of Seepage Studies in New Mexico
Paper number: 36-7
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 10:20 AM – 10:40 AM
Authors
-
Siânin SpaurNew Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, Socorro, NM
Abstract
Seepage studies are important for understanding the interactions between groundwater and surface water, which is necessary for developing accurate numerical models of hydrologic systems. These hydrologic interactions have been studied in New Mexico by many organizations and researchers, with most seepage studies conducted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). However, these studies are spread across different platforms and many are not even available digitally. To address these challenges, a comprehensive geodatabase is being created that compiles two general types of seepage studies. The first type includes standardized streamflow measurements taken over short periods (one to two days). The second type estimates seepage via methods like groundwater level mapping, modeling studies, water chemistry investigations, and analysis of streamflow over long periods.
Over 440 gaged seepage studies spanning 1911-2019 were compiled, yielding 2,642 reaches on 70 streams and canals in New Mexico. Sixty studies using varied methods to estimate river seepage during the period 1904-2020 were compiled to yield 277 seepage reaches on 24 streams and canals.
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 4
doi: 10.1130/abs/2026RM-410527
© Copyright 2026 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted to the author(s) of this abstract to reproduce and distribute it freely, for noncommercial purposes. Permission is hereby granted to any individual scientist to download a single copy of this electronic file and reproduce up to 20 paper copies for noncommercial purposes advancing science and education, including classroom use, providing all reproductions include the complete content shown here, including the author information. All other forms of reproduction and/or transmittal are prohibited without written permission from GSA Copyright Permissions.