Three-dimensional hydrogeologic framework model of the Rio Grande transboundary region of New Mexico and Texas, USA, and northern Chihuahua, Mexico

Scientific Investigations Report 2017-5060
Prepared in cooperation with the Bureau of Reclamation
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Abstract

As part of a U.S. Geological Survey study in cooperation with the Bureau of Reclamation, a digital three-dimensional hydrogeologic framework model was constructed for the Rio Grande transboundary region of New Mexico and Texas, USA, and northern Chihuahua, Mexico. This model was constructed to define the aquifer system geometry and subsurface lithologic characteristics and distribution for use in a regional numerical hydrologic model. The model includes five hydrostratigraphic units: river channel alluvium, three informal subdivisions of Santa Fe Group basin fill, and an undivided pre-Santa Fe Group bedrock unit. Model input data were compiled from published cross sections, well data, structure contour maps, selected geophysical data, and contiguous compilations of surficial geology and structural features in the study area. These data were used to construct faulted surfaces that represent the upper and lower subsurface hydrostratigraphic unit boundaries. The digital three-dimensional hydrogeologic framework model is constructed through combining faults, the elevation of the tops of each hydrostratigraphic unit, and boundary lines depicting the subsurface extent of each hydrostratigraphic unit. The framework also compiles a digital representation of the distribution of sedimentary facies within each hydrostratigraphic unit. The digital three-dimensional hydrogeologic model reproduces with reasonable accuracy the previously published subsurface hydrogeologic conceptualization of the aquifer system and represents the large-scale geometry of the subsurface aquifers. The model is at a scale and resolution appropriate for use as the foundation for a numerical hydrologic model of the study area.

Suggested Citation

Sweetkind, D.S., 2017, Three-dimensional hydrogeologic framework model of the Rio Grande transboundary region of New Mexico and Texas, USA, and northern Chihuahua, Mexico: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2017-5060, 49 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20175060.

ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)

Study Area

Table of Contents

  • Acknowledgments
  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Stratigraphic and Structural Setting
  • Hydrostratigraphic Units For 3D Hydrogeologic Framework Model
  • Data Sources
  • Modeling Methodology
  • Elevation, Thickness, Unit Extent, and Facies Patterns of Hydrostratigraphic Units
  • Visualization of the 3D Hydrogeologic Framework Model
  • Model Evaluation, Use, and Limitations
  • Summary and Conclusions
  • References Cited
  • Appendix 1. Animation—Solid Model Reveal
  • Appendix 2. Animation—Cross Section Panels
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Three-dimensional hydrogeologic framework model of the Rio Grande transboundary region of New Mexico and Texas, USA, and northern Chihuahua, Mexico
Series title Scientific Investigations Report
Series number 2017-5060
DOI 10.3133/sir20175060
Year Published 2017
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center
Description Report: vii, 49 p.; Appendixes 1-2; Data Release
Country Mexico, United States
State Chihuahua, New Mexico, Texas
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
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