Isotopic and Geochemical Tracers of Groundwater Flow in the Shivwits Plateau, Grand Canyon National Park

A novel approach using isotopic and geochemical tracers has successfully characterized groundwater flow systems in the Shivwits Plateau, Grand Canyon National Park. The study identified four distinct groundwater groups based on carbon isotopes (δ13C of dissolved organic and inorganic carbon) and fluorescent dissolved organic matter (fDOM), revealing complex hydrogeological processes including epikarst flow, gypsiferous bed influence, canyon slope runoff, and deep mixing in the Redwall Limestone. These findings demonstrate that ambient geochemical tracers can provide a simple yet effective conceptual model for mixed-lithology aquifers, though higher-resolution data are needed to fully assess climate change impacts on groundwater resources.

Wilson, J. (2020). ISOTOPIC AND GEOCHEMICAL TRACERS OF GROUNDWATER FLOW IN THE SHIVWITS PLATEAU, GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK. University of Kentucky Libraries. https://doi.org/10.13023/ETD.2020.488