Effects of bottom sediments on infiltration from the Miami and tributary canals to the Biscayne aquifer Dade County, Florida

Water-Resources Investigations Report 78-36
Prepared in cooperation with the South Florida Water Management District and the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Authority
By:

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Abstract

Infiltration from the Miami Canal and its tributaries is an important source of recharge to the Biscayne aquifer in the vicinity of the Miami Springs-Hialeah well fields. Estimates of pumpage contributed by canal infiltration decreased from nearly 100 percent in the late 1940 's to 50 percent in May 1973 while well field pumpage increased from less than 50 Mgal/d to 120 Mgal/d. As increased withdrawals enlarge the well field 's cone of depression, the threat of saltwater intrusion during dry periods has been increased. Data on water quality, water levels, and canal bottom sediments indicate that sediments greatly impede infiltration from the canals in the areas most affected by pumping. Bottom sediments reduce coliform bacteria, pesticides, PCB, metals, and other suspended materials infiltrating canal water. 

Suggested Citation

Effects of bottom sediments on infiltration from the Miami and tributary canals to the Biscayne aquifer Dade County, Florida; 1978; WRI; 78-36; Miller, Wesley L.

Study Area

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Effects of bottom sediments on infiltration from the Miami and tributary canals to the Biscayne aquifer Dade County, Florida
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 78-36
DOI 10.3133/wri7836
Year Published 1978
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center
Description v, 63 p.
Country United States
State Florida
County Dade County
Other Geospatial Biscayne aquifer
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details