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Conceptualization of the Predevelopment Groundwater Flow System and Transient Water-Level Responses in Yucca Flat, Nevada National Security Site, Nevada

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/1054288· OSTI ID:1054288
 [1];  [2];  [2];  [2]
  1. US Geological Survey, Reston, VA (United States); U. S. Geological Survey , Nevada Water Science Center, Henderson, NV
  2. US Geological Survey, Reston, VA (United States)
Contaminants introduced into the subsurface of Yucca Flat, Nevada National Security Site, by underground nuclear testing are of concern to the U.S. Department of Energy and regulators responsible for protecting human health and safety. The potential for contaminant movement away from the underground test areas and into the accessible environment is greatest by groundwater transport. The primary hydrologic control on this transport is evaluated and examined through a set of contour maps developed to represent the hydraulic-head distribution within the two major aquifer systems underlying the area. Aquifers and confining units within these systems were identified and their extents delineated by merging and analyzing hydrostratigraphic framework models developed by other investigators from existing geologic information. Maps of the hydraulic-head distributions in the major aquifer systems were developed from a detailed evaluation and assessment of available water-level measurements. The maps, in conjunction with regional and detailed hydrogeologic cross sections, were used to conceptualize flow within and between aquifer systems.
Research Organization:
US Geological Survey, Reston, VA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA); USDOE Office of Environmental Management (EM)
DOE Contract Number:
NA0001654
OSTI ID:
1054288
Report Number(s):
2012--5196
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English