Title

Prediction of the quality and quantity of maramec spring water

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2000

Abstract

Our ability to predict the response of large karstic basins to contaminant pulses and recharge events is limited due to an inability to model flow through these highly heterogeneous and anisotropic basins. The linear systems technique is useful for simulating hydrologic processes occurring in karstic basins because detailed knowledge about the internal structure of the basin is not required. The objectives of this study were to predict changes in the quantity and quality of spring water in a large karstic basin using the linear systems approach. Using a dimensionless unit hydrograph, the change in quantity of spring water was predicted and the correlation coefficient, r, between predicted and observed discharges was 0.94. A nonpoint source kernel was used to predict the change in the specific conductance of the spring water (r = 0.97). A point-source kernel derived from a quantitative dye trace was used to predict the first arrival and dispersion of a contaminant at the spring (r = 0.11). Even though the correlation coefficient is low, the prediction matched the first and last appearances of the contaminant. Quantitative dye traces can be used to predict the movement of aqueous contaminants through karstic aquifers using the linear systems approach. Given the findings of this research, the linear systems approach is a useful predicted tool that would enable better management of ground water resources in karstic basins.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Ground Water

First Page

218

Last Page

225

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