Use of Technological Advances to Map the Groundwater Resources of Rusk County, Texas

Utilizing a combination of hardware and software tools, Rusk County Groundwater Conservation District (RCGCD) in Henderson, Texas has created 2D and 3D computer models of the groundwater resources within its county boundary.   Gathering scientific data to preserve and protect the groundwater is the mission statement for RCGCD.  In an effort to carry out this mission, RCGCD implemented rule 9.2.5 which requires exploration companies to either plug or have their water well inspected within 180 days of the oil/gas rig leaving the site.  During inspection the use of a portable water well camera system, a sub-foot accuracy Trimble Pro XRT GPS unit, and geophysical electric logging equipment provide scientific data of the geology and groundwater resources.  Over 400 electric logs (elogs) from inspections and historical wells have been submitted to professional geologists to help decipher the geologic stratigraphy as well as the major sands comprising the majority of the groundwater.  Along with the elogs, each quarter RCGCD collects static water level measurements from 100 wells that are no longer in use from exploration companies.  This scientific data (elogs and water level measurements) has been entered into a Geographic Information System (GIS), using ArcGIS along with 3D Analyst and Subsurface Analyst, a groundwater modeling software extension from Aquaveo, to create 2D and 3D groundwater models.  Not only can we visualize the entire geology of Rusk County, but we can calculate the aquifer storage capacity that resides in the major sands.  These models provide valuable information and a tremendous understanding of the underlying groundwater resources within Rusk County.