Principles of Hydrogeological Zoning by the Conditions of Formation and the Distribution of the Natural Resources of Fresh Groundwater

Abstract

The principles of hydrogeological zoning of the territory of Russia by the conditions of formation and the distribution of the natural resources of fresh groundwater are discussed. The delineation of the first- and second-order regions is shown to be based on the principles of general hydrogeologic zoning, whereas that of the third and fourth orders is shown to be based on the principles of special hydrogeologic zoning, which can account for the specific structural features of the hydrogeologic section of the zone of intense water exchange, different types of water-bearing rocks, the structure of the unsaturated zone, and, in a number of cases, the climatic and landscape features of the area.