Date of Award
4-2002
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Geological and Environmental Sciences
Department
Geosciences
First Advisor
Dr. William Harrison III
Second Advisor
Dr. Alan Kehew
Third Advisor
Dr. David Barnes
Fourth Advisor
Dr. David Lemberg
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
Presque Isle County, Michigan, has a long history of ground water quality problems. Aquifer contamination is most likely the result of large fractures in the bedrock allowing surface water to rapidly reach ground water. The purpose of the study is to l) perform a geochemical investigation of ground water in the bedrock aquifer, 2) suggest the type of ground water flow system present in the study area and characterize the aquifer type, and 3) suggest how the flow system might affect the behavior and transport of contaminants.
Water samples were collected from sixteen wells in the Genshaw Formation, three wells and one spring in the Rockport Quarry Formation, four wells in unconsolidated material, and three surface water sites. Samples were analyzed for major ion concentrations and physical parameters. Findings of the study show moderate to extreme variations in water chemistry over time, suggesting the presence of a rapid flow component. A dye trace experiment supports this conclusion.
Based on its landforms and hydrological characteristics, the carbonate aquifer can best be described as a karst aquifer. The aquifer is highly vulnerable to contamination and requires special considerations for its protection.
Recommended Citation
Armstrong, Bonny, "Determining Flow Type in a Carbonate Bedrock Aquifer, Presque Isle County, Michigan" (2002). Masters Theses. 3931.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/3931