UPPER KLAMATH BASIN GROUND-WATER STUDY

Objectives

1) Develop a quantitative conceptual understanding of the ground-water flow system of the upper Klamath Basin.


A quantitative conceptual understanding encompasses estimation of the entire ground-water budget including the rates and distribution of recharge and discharge, evaluation of the geologic controls on ground-water flow and factors controlling the occurrence of ground water, and the assessment of the interaction between ground water and surface water. This objective provides the basis for other elements of the study.

2) Develop numerical hydrologic models to test the conceptual understanding of the ground-water flow system and accurately simulate its response to different management alternatives.

Properly calibrated numerical (computer) models provide a test of the conceptual understanding and quantification of the flow system. Models often reveal important gaps in data or problems in understanding the physics of a flow system. The model(s) will help in evaluating ground-water management alternatives, and can provide insights as to how ground water will be affected by extended dry or wet periods.

3) Describe the ground-water flow system through reports, presentations, and use of the internet.

Development of a strategy for water-resources management in the Klamath Basin and the proper development and use of the ground-water resource requires a common and accurate understanding of the hydrologic system. Technical and nontechnical reports generated as part of this study along with presentations will promote such common understanding. Virtually all of the data collected for this study will be made available over the internet. This will help individual water users and communities access information that may by of interest to them.

4) Demonstrate the utility of optimization techniques with hydrologic models in managing water resources in the Klamath Basin.

Regulatory agencies, water users, and other stakeholders will likely identify a variety of resource management objectives and alternatives in the basin. Although recommendations for water management are specifically not part of this study, the hydrologic models developed will be useful for determining optimal management alternatives for a given set of objectives and constraints.

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Contact: Marshall Gannett <mgannett@usgs.gov>