Feasibility of Artificial Recharge to the Oakes Aquifer, Southeastern North Dakota

by Robert B. Shaver, North Dakota State Water Commission, United States,
William M. Schuh, North Dakota State Water Commission, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Artificial Recharge of Ground Water

Abstract:

Based on measured well yields, initial surface infiltration rates, and ground-water quality, the Oakes aquifer can support a large-scale artificial recharge-irrigation project. An aquifer test conducted using an irrigation well completed in the channel-fill deposits in the area most feasible for development indicated a transmissivity of 94,000 feet squared per day. Individual well yields of about 3,000 gallons per minute are attainable. A surface-infiltration test conducted in sands overlying the channel-fill deposits in this area, indicated an initial infiltration rate of 2.5 feet per day, sufficient to support large-scale surface artificial recharge facilities. Ground water in the channel-fill deposits is suitable for irrigation use. A finite-difference model of the Oakes aquifer indicates that the channel-fill deposits could sustain withdrawals required to meet periods of peak irrigation demand.

Subject Headings: Water quality | Water pollution | Water supply | Water demand | Groundwater quality | Wells (water) | Infiltration | North Dakota | United States

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