Hydrological Studies - Groundwater Development Project
Understanding the hydrology of this region is critical in evaluating the potential hydrological impacts of groundwater development. The following provides an overview of existing research and planned analyses. View a list of hydrological studies.
Previous Hydrological Studies
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Desert Research Institute (DRI), Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) and the Las Vegas Valley Water District have been analyzing many of Nevada’s hydrographic basins for decades. Combined, they have collected a tremendous amount of data that serves as the foundation for current water resource investigations. Among the major studies undertaken to characterize groundwater movement and interbasin dynamics were the Regional Aquifer System Analysis and the Cooperative Carbonate Terrain Project.
Ongoing Investigations
Since its formation in 1991, SNWA has participated in or funded studies related to the region’s hydrology. Several collaborative efforts with USGS and DRI have yielded important hydrogeological information with significant relevance to the SNWA Clark, Lincoln and White Pine Counties Groundwater Development Project.
Monitoring and Management
Ultimately, the most accurate method of quantifying natural recharge and generating an accurate model of a hydrographic basin or flow system involves careful extraction of groundwater and a comprehensive monitoring program. SNWA will identify and evaluate alternatives for hydrologic management and monitoring in accordance with plans approved by the State Engineer for the water rights and as required under stipulated agreements with federal agencies.
Hydrologic Effects Analysis
Although data collected during the past six decades has greatly increased the body of knowledge available related to eastern and southern Nevada’s groundwater basin, SNWA is committed to further research that will more specifically define the region’s hydrodynamics. SNWA is conducting an analysis of potential hydrologic effects that includes the compilation of existing data, characterization of hydrogeologic conditions at potential well sites and existing springs, biological characterization of spring-dependent habitats, phreatophyte condition evaluation, regional- and local-scale hydrogeologic characterization and the development of a groundwater flow model.
List of Studies
A list of hydrological studies conducted or contracted by SNWA, including those for the Groundwater Development Project, is provided on the In-State Groundwater Resources Hydrological Studies page.