Stephen Opsahl
Biography
Steve’s interest in science began at an early age and he could usually be found around water. Steve received a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from the University of Texas at Austin and followed this with a Ph.D. in Marine Science from the U.T. Austin Marine Science Institute in Port Aransas, TX. Steve’s research focuses on natural and anthropogenic tracers in aquatic systems and the influence of UV radiation on both biology and chemistry. While in Georgia, Steve developed an appreciation for aquifers including their importance as an ecosystem and for supporting human life. Steve is currently a Hydrologist with the Texas Water Science Center in San Antonio and intends to apply his experiences to help better understand and manage the aquatic network of Texas including watersheds, aquifers, and coastal marine systems.
Science and Products
Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Surface-water and Groundwater Interaction
The effects of urbanization across the recharge zone in Bexar County and potential impact on the water quality in the Edwards aquifer is a topic of specific concern for the City of San Antonio. The USGS Texas Water Science Center is simultaneously collecting water-quality data from surface-water runoff sites and paired shallow groundwater wells within the recharge zone of the Edwards aquifer...
San Antonio River Sediment and Water Quality Monitoring in an Oil and Gas Production Area
During 2011-2013, baseline concentrations of many different water and streambed-sediment constituents were determined at Phase I sites upstream from, within, and downstream from the area of active oil and natural-gas production within the San Antonio River Basin. With baseline conditions previously established, this study will provide current information that couples recent water and stream-...
Urban Waters Federal Partnership - Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone Monitoring Network
The USGS Texas Water Science Center is implementing a more complete and integrated monitoring network for the Edwards aquifer to improve the understanding of aquifer water quality and establish a baseline for measuring future water-quality changes.
Edwards Aquifer Studies in Texas
The Edwards aquifer in south-central Texas is one of the most productive aquifers in the Nation and is the primary source of water for the rapidly growing San Antonio area. Springs issuing from the Edwards aquifer provide habitat for several threatened and endangered species, serve as locations for recreational activities, and supply downstream users.
The USGS Texas Water Science Center...