Geochemical Characterization of a Surficial Aquifer Near the Ogeechee River, Georgia

Document Type

Presentation

Presentation Date

4-1-2016

Abstract or Description

Groundwater is a key source of drinking water that is essential to life on Earth. Groundwater also naturally flows into streams as baseflow. The intent of this study is to comprehend the natural geochemical conditions of a relatively pristine surficial aquifer near a small section of the Ogeechee River, Bulloch County, GA. Two temporary surficial wells were sampled monthly starting in May 2015 for basic water quality parameters, radon concentrations, and oxygen and hydrogen isotopes. Daily precipitation and stream discharge data was obtained from a nearby stream gauging station operated by the USGS. Precipitation was also collected at the field site and will be analyzed for oxygen and hydrogen isotopes to help establish a local meteoric water line for the area. The average radon concentration of Well 1 was 2426 ±1281 Bq/m3, n=7 while Well 3 had an average concentration of 7891 ±639 Bq/m3, n=6. These concentrations will be used as end-members to help determine flux of groundwater to the river in future work. Collectively, the results will contribute to a long-term study of the site and will be interpreted to characterize groundwater in the field area. Through this work, humans can improve remedial processes and water budgeting, while serving as a base for future research to understand how future natural and anthropogenic activities may impact the river system.

Sponsorship/Conference/Institution

Geological Society of American Southeastern Section Annual Meeting (GSA)

Location

Columbia, SC

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