Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

6189

Date

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Earth Sciences

Concentration

Geology

Committee Chair

Daniel Larsen

Committee Member

Dorian Burnette

Committee Member

Hsiang Kung

Abstract

The Memphis aquifer is the principal source for groundwater in western Tennessee. Recharge processes to the aquifer are poorly understood, but previous studies show that recharge to the aquifer occurs more efficiently in stream gullies with sand bottoms than in upland terraces within rural areas of the recharge belt: the same is expected in urban areas. Water balance measurements in the Sandy Creek watershed in Jackson, Tennessee, provide information regarding infiltration and potential recharge to the Memphis Aquifer that may be typical of urban stream valleys where Coastal Plain aquifers are exposed. Monthly water balance estimates in the watershed indicate peak groundwater recharge during winter and early spring months with lesser contributions during the summer and fall when soil moisture retention is lowest. The majority of the recharge is attributed to discharge losses in the streambed with little recharge passing through the silt-rich soils of the upland surfaces.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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