| Aquifers and groundwater systems can be classified using a variety of independent methods to characterize geologic and hydraulic properties, the degree of connection with surface water, and geochemical conditions. In light of a growing global demand for water associated with population growth, land development, and the expected effects of climate change, a standardized approach for classifying groundwater systems at the watershed scale is needed. To this end, a comprehensive classification system is developed that combines recognized methods and new approaches into one system. The purpose of this approach is to provide groundwater professionals, policy makers, and watershed managers with a widely applicable classification system that reduces sometimes cumbersome complex groundwater databases and analyses to straightforward graphical representations. The proposed classification system uses basin geology, aquifer productivity, threats and impacts posed by humans, water quality, and the degree of groundwater/surface water exchange as classification criteria. The approach is based on literature values, reference databases, and basic hydrologic and hydrogeologic principles. The proposed classification system treats data set completeness as a variable and includes a tiered assessment protocol that depends on the quality and quantity of data. In addition, it assembles and catalogs groundwater information using a consistent set of nomenclature. It is designed to analyze and display results using Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping tools, while standardizing descriptions of groundwater conditions and to support resource managers as they make land use decisions at the watershed scale.Key Terms: Hydrogeology, groundwater management, watersheds, watershed management, geographical information systems, rivers/streams, surface water/groundwater connection, and land use. |
