A Hydrogeologic Framework for Understanding Local Groundwater Flow Dynamics in the Southeast Deschutes Basin, Oregon, USA

Phil Caruso,Carlos Ochoa,Tim Deboodt,W Jarvis

doi:10.3390/geosciences9020057

Abstract

Understanding local hydrogeology is important for the management of groundwater resources and the ecosystems that depend on them. The main objective of this study conducted in central Oregon, USA was to characterize the hydrogeologic framework of a part of the semiarid Upper Deschutes Basin. Information on local geology and hydrology was synthesized to construct a hydrogeologic framework and a conceptual model of groundwater movement in shallow and previously unmapped deeper aquifers. Study results show that local geology drives many of the surface water and groundwater connections that sustain groundwater-related ecosystems and ranching-related activities in the geographical area of interest. Also, the findings of this study suggest that ecohydrological investigations can be used to mitigate concerns regarding groundwater development. Likewise, newly-developed conceptual models of the hydrogeology of previously unstudied areas within a groundwater basin undergoing regulation offer opportunities to not only address concerns regarding integrated surface water–groundwater interactions but also provide supplemental sources of water for nearby areas undergoing groundwater depletion through proposed bulk water transfers.

Highlights

Groundwater is an essential resource worldwide, relied upon for agriculture, energy production, human consumption, and ecosystem services [1]
United States, the increasing demand for water resources, due in part to rising population growth dynamics and severe drought conditions, has led to substantial increases in groundwater use to compensate for decreasing surface water supplies
Groundwater-related ecosystems such as lakes, rivers, springs, wetlands, or phreatophytic and subterranean ecosystems [5] are often identified by vegetative communities that depend on surface and subsurface expression of groundwater [6]

Summary

Introduction

Groundwater is an essential resource worldwide, relied upon for agriculture, energy production, human consumption, and ecosystem services [1]. A study by Aldous et al [13] investigated the linkages between the hydrogeologic setting and the presence of groundwater-dependent ecosystems in the montane setting of the Deschutes Basin of central Oregon They found some of these systems to be associated with areas of low-permeability strata and local recharge systems [13]. This seems to be the case at our Camp Creek Paired Watershed Study (CCPWS) site in central Oregon, where we have conducted extensive research on the hydrologic response to vegetative management practices such as western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) removal.

Study Site

Geologic Cross-Sections

Groundwater

Conceptual