A water-resources data-network evaluation for Monterey County, California, phase 3: Northern Salinas River drainage basin

Water-Resources Investigations Report 89-4123
By:  and 

Links

Abstract

This report evaluates existing data collection networks and possible additional data collection to monitor quantity and quality of precipitation, surface water, and groundwater in the northern Salinas River drainage basin, California. Of the 34 precipitation stations identified, 20 were active and are concentrated in the northwestern part of the study area. No precipitation quality networks were identified, but possible data collection efforts include monitoring for acid rain and pesticides. Six of ten stream-gaging stations are active. Two surface water quality sites are sampled for suspended sediment, specific conductance, and chloride; one U.S. Geological Survey NASOAN site and one site operated by California Department of Water Resources make up the four active sampling locations; reactivation of 45 inactive surface water quality sites might help to achieve objectives described in the report. Three local networks measure water levels in 318 wells monthly, during peak irrigation, and at the end of the irrigation season. Water quality conditions are monitored in 379 wells; samples are collected in summer to monitor saltwater intrusion near Castroville and are also collected annually throughout the study area for analysis of chloride, specific conductance, and nitrate. An ideal baseline network would be an evenly spaced grid of index wells with a density of one per section. When baseline conditions are established, representative wells within the network could be monitored periodically according to specific data needs. (USGS)

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title A water-resources data-network evaluation for Monterey County, California, phase 3: Northern Salinas River drainage basin
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 89-4123
DOI 10.3133/wri894123
Year Published 1990
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description v, 96 p.
Country United States
State California
County Monterey County
Other Geospatial northern Salinas River drainage basin
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details