Application of seismic stratigraphy and sedimentology to regional hydrogeological investigations: an example from Oak Ridges Moraine, southern Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Hydrogeological models need to be supported by a clear understanding of the subsurface geology to provide effective assessment, flow modelling, or management of groundwater regimes. This paper illustrates how geophysical and sedimentological data can be used to significantly improve watershed-scale hydrostratigraphic models by advancing our understanding of the subsurface through regional hydrogeological investigations in the Greater Toronto Area. The example of a 3 km shallow seismic reflection survey that traverses a buried channel within Bowmanville Creek watershed, Oak Ridges Moraine, Ontario, illustrates a basis for linking geophysical and sedimentological properties to regional hydrostratigraphic parameters. Seismic reflection methods plus seismic stratigraphy and a well-constrained three-dimensional geological framework have helped to (i) identify regional hydrostratigraphic units, (ii) define properties and trends of these units–facies, (iii) improve depositional models that assist hydrogeological analysis, and (iv) establish a hydrostratigraphic framework within a watershed. The extent, proportions, boundaries, and variation in internal properties of major hydrostratigraphic units could be identified to greater than 100 m depth. Geostatistical analysis of seismic amplitudes was used to provide a quantitative measure of heterogeneity in a glaciofluvial aquifer with inadequate parameter support. Benefits to engineering practice include improved siting of monitors and tests from portrayal of the spatial organization, geometry, and variability of hydrostratigraphic units based on sedimentary architecture and environments of deposition. Hydrogeological modelling can be improved with better knowledge of the geometry of aquifers and aquitards and grid-cell boundaries that correspond with the defined sediment boundaries that control properties.Key words: Oak Ridges Moraine, hydrogeology, seismic stratigraphy, southern Ontario, sedimentology.