Ground Water in the South Carolina Coastal Plain

Abstract

ground water resources of the coastal plain of So th Carolina compare favorably in both quantity and quality with those of most other areas of the United States. Presented here are some of the salient features of the occurrence of ground water in this part of South Carolina, with particular emphasis on its broad relationships of geology, hydrology, and geochemistry. The US Geological Survey, in cooperation with the State Development Board, is currently engaged in ground water investigations in South Carolina, and most of the data presented herein were obtained during the course of these investigations. The areal geology is considered first because it represents the primary factor controlling the occurrence and movement of ground water. Next, some hydrologic concepts are discussed, particularly as they relate to aquifers in the coastal plain. Finally, the geochemical aspects of waters obtained from the aquifers are considered.