BPMD Mayflower Section of the Animas River, Silverton, CO. Geophysical Surveys for Groundwater – Surface Water Characteristics

This presentation highlights electromagnetic induction, magnetic, and fiber optic distributed temperature system investigations to understand groundwater – surface water interactions at the Mayflower section of the Animas River in Silverton, Colorado.  These field measurements covered about 4 km of this section of the Animas River and identified several locations where groundwater is likely entering the river.  These locations were identified due to their electrical conductivity signatures, magnetic susceptibility, and thermal properties.  The results will be used by EPA Region 8 to enhance the conceptual site model, to interpret geochemical analysis, and to guide remediation decisions and next steps in the protection of the Animas River from mine influenced groundwater.

Impact/Purpose

This presentation shows electromagnetic induction, magnetic, and fiber optic distributed temperature system investigations to understand groundwater – surface water interactions at the Mayflower section of the Animas River in Silverton, Colorado.  These field measurements covered about 4 km of this section of the Animas River and identified several locations where groundwater is likely entering the river.  These locations were identified due to their electrical conductivity signatures, magnetic susceptibility, and thermal properties.  The results will be used by EPA Region 8 to enhance the conceptual site model, to interpret geochemical analysis, and to guide remediation decisions and next steps in the protection of the Animas River from mine influenced groundwater.

Citation

Werkema, D., N. Terry, AND B. Trottier. BPMD Mayflower Section of the Animas River, Silverton, CO. Geophysical Surveys for Groundwater – Surface Water Characteristics. Bonita Peak Mining District Community Meeting, Silverton, CO, July 11, 2023.