T143 Springs: Keys to Understanding Geochemical Processes in Aquifers

Tuesday, 18 October 2005
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

GEOCHEMISTRY AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS OF THIRTY-FIVE SPRINGS IN THE TRANS-PECOS OF WEST TEXAS AND THEIR SOURCES

Paper number: T143-4
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 8:50 AM – 9:05 AM

Authors

Abstract

The springs were sampled for 26 parameters following USEPA and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality protocols. Water quality was characterized using Aquachem software. Relationship to the regional aquifers was established by using records of well analyses obtained from the Texas Water Development Board. A general description of the contributing aquifer systems was constructed using this data. In addition flow measurements and biological sampling was done to further characterize the springs. Currently the region is considering proposals to mine groundwater for transport to large municipal users and this is not being welcomed by residents of the region.