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Plan of study for the Regional Aquifer-System Analysis, Columbia Plateau, Washington, northern Oregon, and northwestern Idaho

Water-Resources Investigations Report 85-4151
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https://doi.org/10.3133/wri854151

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Abstract

The U.S. Geological Survey began a 4-year study of the regional aquifer system underlying the Columbia Plateau, in central and eastern Washington, northern Oregon, and northwestern Idaho in October 1983, as part of the Regional Aquifer System Analysis program. The study will describe the geohydrology, geochemistry, and quality of water in the Columbia River Basalt Group, the Miocene rocks that underlie 70,000 square miles in three States. Water from the basalts is used for municipal and industrial purposes, and most importantly, for agriculture. As more land is brought under cultivation and surface water becomes totally allocated, the groundwater is an increasingly important supply for agriculture and related activities. In addition, the basalts are being considered as a repository site for high-level nuclear wastes. For management agencies to make the best decisions regarding the future development of this area, the regional groundwater flow system, its relation to the surfacewater system , and the quality of the water need to be quantified. This report describes the geohydrologic setting, hydrologic problems, objectives, and approach for the region. (USGS)

Suggested Citation

Vaccaro, J.J., 1986, Plan of study for the Regional Aquifer-System Analysis, Columbia Plateau, Washington, northern Oregon, and northwestern Idaho: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 85-4151, iii, 25 p. :ill., maps ;28 cm., https://doi.org/10.3133/wri854151.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Plan of study for the Regional Aquifer-System Analysis, Columbia Plateau, Washington, northern Oregon, and northwestern Idaho
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 85-4151
DOI 10.3133/wri854151
Year Published 1986
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey,
Contributing office(s) Oregon Water Science Center
Description iii, 25 p. :ill., maps ;28 cm.
Additional publication details