Groundwater Management and Geophysical Methods

The Marina Coast Water District is focused on creating accurate models of groundwater distribution and sediment types to ensure sustainable water management. Due to limited well data, they employ geophysical methods like SkyTEM and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) to gather comprehensive subsurface information. These methods help map sediment types and water conductivity, crucial for understanding groundwater dynamics and the impact of desalination projects. The district aims to balance water input and output, ensuring long-term resource sustainability.

What is the primary goal of the Marina Coast Water District's modeling efforts?

• To eliminate the use of saltwater in the district

• To increase the amount of groundwater available

• To create accurate models of water and sediment distribution

• To reduce the cost of water management

What is the significance of mapping sediment types in the subsurface?

• It helps in determining the best locations for new wells

• It reduces the cost of water extraction

• It controls the movement of saltwater and freshwater

• It increases the speed of water flow

Why is the SkyTEM system used by the district?

• To drill deeper wells

• To increase water pressure

• To desalinate saltwater

• To acquire geophysical data for mapping

What role does Aqua Frameworks play in the project?

• They build desalination plants

• They manage the district's water resources

• They offer expertise in acquiring SkyTEM data

• They provide financial support

How does the SkyTEM system measure subsurface conductivity?

• By using satellite imagery

• By drilling wells

• By injecting chemicals into the ground

• By using a large transmitter loop to generate magnetic fields

What is the purpose of using electrical resistivity tomography (ERT)?

• To desalinate water

• To increase water temperature

• To map subsurface properties

• To reduce water usage

What is the advantage of using helicopter-based instrumentation for ERT?

• It is cheaper than traditional methods

• It provides a 3D image of the subsurface

• It requires less manpower

• It is faster than using drones

What is the ultimate goal of the district's water management strategy?

• To eliminate the use of saltwater

• To achieve a balance where water in equals water out

• To reduce the cost of water

• To increase the number of wells

How does the district plan to ensure the sustainability of its water resources?

• By using geophysical methods to improve groundwater models

• By increasing water imports

• By building more reservoirs

• By reducing water consumption

What is the expected outcome of using geophysical methods in groundwater management?

• Reduced water quality

• Decreased water availability

• Broader adoption of these methods

• Increased water prices