Subsurface conditions may differ considerably from conditions indicated by surficial geologic maps, particularly in glaciated areas. Therefore, it is advantageous to use a series of lithofacies maps as a sequence of overlays plotted on transparent paper. Such maps permit direct visual determination of the lithology and areal extent of aquifers and indicate areas of possible stream losses or gains. They indicate areas and boundaries of confining layers and, in some places, they may be used to delineate areas of water-table and artesian conditions. They are especially useful in determining buried channels in glaciated areas. The porosity of rock units making up an aquifer may be plotted on a lithofacies map, and the product of the volume of each lithologic type and the porosity provides an estimate of the total water in storage. In addition, if the water-bearing properties are known, the quantity of water moving through an aquifer and the amount available to wells may be determined. Lithofacies maps also aid in the explanation of complex changes in water quality.
