Water Stewardship Information Sources
| ID | 1310 |
|---|---|
| Citation | Neilson-Welch, L and Allen, D. 2007. Groundwater and hydrogeological conditions in the Okanagan Basin, British Columba: A state-of-the-basin report. Prepared for the Okanagan Basin Water Board. |
| Organization | OBWB |
| URL | http://www.obwb.ca/fileadmin/docs/water_supply_demand/water_supply_demand_final_report.pdf |
| Abstract/Description or Keywords | This report identifies a number of information sources for obtaining groundwaterrelated information. The sources are described, and information that contributes to the understanding of regional hydrogeological processes in the Okanagan Basin is summarized. A synthesis of available information is then developed. Based on this synthesis, significant data gaps are identified and conclusions are made. The following text summarizes the results and conclusions presented in this report. ﾕ Sources for compiling groundwater-related data for the Okanagan Basin were identified under the following categories: Databases and Maps, Report Catalogues, Water Purveyors and Local Government, Consultant Reports, and Current Research and Knowledge. ﾕ Many of the information sources identified provide potentially useful data regarding local-scale hydrogeology. Local-scale data was not compiled for this report. ﾕ There are a number of regional-scale research projects that provide (or have the potential to provide) useful information regarding Okanagan Basin hydrogeology. Many of these research projects (summarized in this report based on unpublished information) are in preliminary stages, are ongoing, or are yet to be published. Figure i, below, presents a visual summary indicating areas of significant hydrogeological knowledge or ongoing research in the Okanagan Basin. Information regarding the individual topics noted on Figure i can be referenced within the body of this report in the section numbers identified. ﾕ As part of the synthesis of available information, Aquifer Information Tables were developed for each aquifer identified by the BC MOE to be located within, or partly within, the Okanagan Basin (73 in total). These tables (in Appendix II of this report) provide summary information regarding aquifer dimensions, materials, hydraulic properties, and other data. The level of detail of available information is different for each of the aquifers. ﾕ Based on the synthesis of information on regional hydrogeology and groundwater, the following general needs (i.e. data gaps) are evident: ﾾ Interpretations of stratigraphy (i.e., cross sections) and depositional environments for more areas within the Okanagan Basin. ﾾ Delineation (laterally and vertically) of identified aquifers and currently unmapped aquifers, based on current data and rigorous analysis. ﾾ Quantification of hydraulic properties of aquifers and aquitards across the Basin where these data have not previously been obtained. ﾾ An improved understanding of hydraulic connections between aquifers. ﾾ An improved understanding of recharge and discharge processes influencing the different aquifers (including surface water - groundwater interactions and subsurface processes). ﾾ Quantification of aquifer recharge/discharge due to different mechanisms. ﾾ Groundwater flow direction and gradient information (for unconfined, confined, and bedrock aquifers) In general, there is a high degree of uncertainty regarding hydrogeological conditions within most watersheds; only a few detailed hydrogeological studies have been undertaken to date. Thus, there will be limitations regarding the certainty of values for parameters used in future modelling work. Implications for hydrogeological modelling are discussed in Section 5.8 of the report. Section 5.7 identifies aquifer-watershed relationships which are relevant to modelling work for subsequent components of the Phase 2 Supply and Demand Project. ﾕ Although some data gaps have been identified, available data provide a basis to initiate future Okanagan Basin hydrogeological investigations. ﾕ It is evident, based on the large number of ongoing research projects, and the coordination of this research under the auspices of the Groundwater Assessment in the Okanagan Basin (GAOB) project, that there will be a significant increase in hydrogeological knowledge for the Okanagan Basin over the next decade. It will be important to consider current research for future water resources supply and demand studies. ﾕ The information presented in this report is subject to all limitations noted within the report and appendices. |
| Information Type | report |
| Regional Watershed | Okanagan |
| Sub-watershed if known | |
| Aquifer # | |
| Comments | |
| Project status | complete |
| Contact Name | Diana Allen |
| Contact Email | [email protected] |