The use of fluorescent tracers as a groundwater

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The use of fluorescent tracers as a groundwater investigation tool Presented by: Geary M.

The use of fluorescent tracers as a groundwater investigation tool Presented by: Geary M. Schindel, P. G. Chief Technical Officer Edwards Aquifer Authority San Antonio, Texas

Fluorescent Dyes: • Cheap to purchase ($20 - $50 per pound) • Low cost

Fluorescent Dyes: • Cheap to purchase ($20 - $50 per pound) • Low cost analysis ($15 - $25 per analysis) • Low detectability (10 - 20 ppt) • Non-toxic compounds

Fluorescent Dyes: • Determine Groundwater Flowpaths • Evaluate geologic controls • Time of Travel

Fluorescent Dyes: • Determine Groundwater Flowpaths • Evaluate geologic controls • Time of Travel • Relative Vulnerability of Groundwater Resources • Aquifer assimilative capacity

Fluorescent Dyes: • Can be field labor intensive • Requires identification of recharge and

Fluorescent Dyes: • Can be field labor intensive • Requires identification of recharge and discharge points • Collection and analysis of samples • Requires knowledge and experience with tracer test design

Breakthrough Curves at Landa Lake Outlet Eosine From Panther Canyon Well Comal Springs Discharge

Breakthrough Curves at Landa Lake Outlet Eosine From Panther Canyon Well Comal Springs Discharge (366 - 352 cfs) Uranine from LCRA Well Uranine results indicate photodegradation of dye as it crosses Landa Lake

Geologic Map vel Tra Dolomitic time y r da s pe mile - 3

Geologic Map vel Tra Dolomitic time y r da s pe mile - 3 Basal Nodular Cyclic & Marine

One well-designed tracer test, properly done, and correctly interpreted, is worth a 1000 expert

One well-designed tracer test, properly done, and correctly interpreted, is worth a 1000 expert opinions. . . or 100 computer simulations of groundwater flow Dr. James F. Quinlan Tracer tests will change your conceptual understanding of groundwater flow – towards reality Dr. E. Calvin Alexander,