Streamflow depletion by wells--Understanding and managing the effects of groundwater pumping on streamflow

Circular 1376
Groundwater Resources Program
By:  and 

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Abstract

Groundwater is an important source of water for many human needs, including public supply, agriculture, and industry. With the development of any natural resource, however, adverse consequences may be associated with its use. One of the primary concerns related to the development of groundwater resources is the effect of groundwater pumping on streamflow. Groundwater and surface-water systems are connected, and groundwater discharge is often a substantial component of the total flow of a stream. Groundwater pumping reduces the amount of groundwater that flows to streams and, in some cases, can draw streamflow into the underlying groundwater system. Streamflow reductions (or depletions) caused by pumping have become an important water-resource management issue because of the negative impacts that reduced flows can have on aquatic ecosystems, the availability of surface water, and the quality and aesthetic value of streams and rivers. Scientific research over the past seven decades has made important contributions to the basic understanding of the processes and factors that affect streamflow depletion by wells. Moreover, advances in methods for simulating groundwater systems with computer models provide powerful tools for estimating the rates, locations, and timing of streamflow depletion in response to groundwater pumping and for evaluating alternative approaches for managing streamflow depletion. The primary objective of this report is to summarize these scientific insights and to describe the various field methods and modeling approaches that can be used to understand and manage streamflow depletion. A secondary objective is to highlight several misconceptions concerning streamflow depletion and to explain why these misconceptions are incorrect.

Suggested Citation

Streamflow depletion by wells--Understanding and managing the effects of groundwater pumping on streamflow; 2012; CIR; 1376; Barlow, Paul M.; Leake, Stanley A.

ISSN: 2330-5703 (online)

ISSN: 1067-084X (print)

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Streamflow depletion by wells--Understanding and managing the effects of groundwater pumping on streamflow
Series title Circular
Series number 1376
DOI 10.3133/cir1376
Year Published 2012
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Description vi, 84 p.; col. ill.; maps (col.)
First page i
Last page 84
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details