Groundwater Availability in Karst Aquifers of the Southeastern United States
Karst aquifers are a major source of potable water supply and the understanding of the aquifers their management and protection pose unique challenges. The challenges result from the multi-porosity of the aquifers and their vulnerability to contamination due to rapid infiltration rates and short travel times. Karst aquifers also are vulnerable to drought because they respond rapidly to climatic changes. The major karst aquifers in the eastern United States are; the Floridan aquifer system, the Biscayne aquifer, the Castle-Hayne aquifer, the Valley and Ridge aquifers, the Mississippian aquifers, and the Ordovicain aquifers. The U.S. Geological Survey through the Cooperative Water and Groundwater Resources programs is involved in studies to address groundwater availability. This session will cover studies in the complex karst aquifers in the southeastern USA followed by a discussion period.
U.S. Geological Survey, Norcross, GA
