Poster Number 228
See more from this Division: Topical Sessions
See more from this Session: Innovative Methods for Investigating Flow and Transport in Karst Systems (Posters)
Abstract:
Preliminary results indicate at least three distinct sources of water to the subsurface hydrology. Variability in electrical conductivity (EC), temperature, alkalinity, and the presence of vascular plant biomarkers demonstrates heterogeneity of flowpaths through soils, overlying strata, and host-rock. Elevated EC and alkalinity in one cave stream indicates more extensive water-host-rock interactions compared to an adjacent stream despite morphologic, stratigraphic, and hydrologic similarities. Aqueous sulfur content and localized gypsum deposits support geochemical contributions from overlying shale units. Observed direct flowpaths from sinking streams indicates strong influence of surface and rainwater inputs to the system without protracted reservoir storage. Despite the geochemical heterogeneity, we are able to delineate likely flow paths and provide critical information about how karst aquifers respond under near-natural conditions. This study has implications for the utility of vascular plant biomarker for delineating surface to subsurface connectivity, which may lead to their application as a novel paleoclimate proxy.
See more from this Division: Topical Sessions
See more from this Session: Innovative Methods for Investigating Flow and Transport in Karst Systems (Posters)