An assessment of the potential to use water chemistry parameters to define ground water flow pathways at Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

A study at Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, found that water chemistry parameters can effectively differentiate groundwater flow pathways. By analyzing major anions, trace elements, and field measurements from springs, ground, and surface waters sampled between 1992 and 1993, researchers used Principal Component Analysis to identify patterns in hydrochemistry. The analysis revealed that springs issuing from similar lithologic units or geographic localities exhibit analogous chemistry, with local groundwater hydrochemistry closely resembling that of south rim springs, particularly those originating from the Redwall-Muav Limestones. This insight provides a quantitative method for tracing groundwater movement, offering valuable implications for understanding hydrological processes in the park.

Zukosky, K. A. (1995). An assessment of the potential to use water chemistry parameters to define ground water flow pathways at Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. University of Nevada, Las Vegas. https://doi.org/10.25669/704G-E9F9