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Ground water and surface water: A single resource

August 1, 1998

The importance of considering ground water and surface water as a single resource has become increasingly evident. Issues related to water supply, water quality, and degradation of aquatic environments are reported on frequently. The interaction of ground water and surface water has been shown to be a significant concern in many of these issues. Contaminated aquifers that discharge to streams can result in long-term contamination of surface water; conversely, streams can be a major source of contamination to aquifers. Surface water commonly is hydraulically connected to ground water, but the interactions are difficult to observe and measure. The purpose of this report is to present our current understanding of these processes and activities as well as limitations in our knowledge and ability to characterize them.

Publication Year 1998
Title Ground water and surface water: A single resource
DOI 10.3133/cir1139
Authors Thomas C. Winter, Judson W. Harvey, O. Lehn Franke, William M. Alley
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Circular
Series Number 1139
Index ID cir1139
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization North Dakota Water Science Center; Toxic Substances Hydrology Program; Dakota Water Science Center