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Plan of study for the regional aquifer-system analysis of the Snake River plain, Idaho and eastern Oregon

Open-File Report 81-689
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https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr81689

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Abstract

The 15,600-square-mile Snake River Plain is largely in southern Idaho and includes one of the Nation 's major regional aquifers. A comprehensive investigation of the area 's ground-water resources will be made as part of the U.S. Geological Survey 's Regional Aquifer-System Analysis (RASA) program. Basaltic and sedimentary rocks in the Snake River Plain yield large quantities of water that are vital to the area 's agricultural economy. Basaltic rocks predominate in the eastern Snake River Plain and have especially high water-yielding capabilities. Surface water, largely from the Snake River, is extensively used for irrigation and is a major source of recharge to the ground-water system. Springs issuing from basaltic rocks that form the Snake River Canyon wall near Twin Falls are the major points of ground-water discharge. Increased use of ground water for irrigation is causing concern as to the effect of large-scale withdrawals on spring flow. Ground-water flow models will be used to improve understanding of the hydrologic system, and, if feasible, to aid in evaluating management alternatives. Ground-water quality will be defined and geochemical techniques used to determine the effects of water-rock reactions on water quality. Several reports are planned on different phases of the project, concluding with a summary report. (USGS)
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Plan of study for the regional aquifer-system analysis of the Snake River plain, Idaho and eastern Oregon
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 81-689
DOI 10.3133/ofr81689
Edition -
Year Published 1981
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey,
Description 23 p. :maps ;28 cm.
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