Geology and ground water of the Red Lake area, Navajo Indian Reservation, Arizona and New Mexico

Abstract

The Red Lake area in the Navajo Indian Reservation, Arizona and New Mexico, was studied by the U.S. Geological Survey to determine if 1 mgd (million gallons per day) of water could be obtained for the requirements of a proposed sawmill. Geologic mapping and stratigraphic studies indicated three favorable areas where ground water may be developed. Test holes were drilled under contract in the areas, and pumping tests indicate that 500,000 gpd (gallons per day) is available from alluvium along Tohdildonih Wash near Frog Rock, 100,000 gpd is available from the Shinarump member of the Chinle formation and the De Chelly sandstone near Red Lake, and 800,000 gpd is available from alluvium and cinder beds in lapilli tuff in Buell Park, an eroded diatreme. The diatreme at Buell Park is about 2% miles in diameter. It was formed by several explosions in which lapilli tuff and cinders were erupted. These materials, together with later basaltic intrusive and extrusive rock, now fill the diatreme. The tuff and cinders are water bearing, and they receive recharge from rainwater and snowmelt moving through overlying alluvium and from storage in the De Chelly sandstone which encloses the east half of the diatreme. The quality of water from all areas is suitable for domestic use. However, special treatment may be necessary to make the water suitable for pulp processing. INTRODUCTION Studies of the timber resources indicate that the forests on the Navajo Indian Reservation are capable of producing an annual timber yield several times the present production. In order to harvest the maximum potential of the forests, the Tribal Council in 1958 initiated plans for constructing a timber-processing plant in the Red Lake area about 12 miles north of Fort Defiance, Ariz. It was estimated by industrial consultants that the new plant and adjoining town would