Evaluation of the groundwater system and integration of data using GIS in the western slope of Pampean Mountains, Córdoba Argentina

Abstract

The objective of the research was to carry out the hydrogeological characterization of the regional groundwater system in a basin of the western slope of the Pampean Mountains (Córdoba Province, Argentina) and to integrate the information into a Geographic Information System (GIS). Satellite images, Digital Elevation Model, topographic maps and climate data were used. The water table depth was measured in 30 wells and 30 groundwater samples from the unconfined aquifer were obtained and analyzed. The data was stored in a GIS. According to the geological and geomorphological characteristics, two aquifer environments were distinguished, which have different K, sediment thickness and extraction flows (Q). 1) Villa Dolores Aquifers Systems (thickness aprox. 30 m and Q= in the order of 8 m3/h) and 2) Los Cerrillos Aquifers Systems (thickness= 100-120 m and Q= 90-455 m3/h). The groundwater flow is in the East-West direction and two zones clearly differentiable according to the hydraulic gradients were observed. In general, the groundwater is fresh (less than 2,000 mg/L). The high gradients, no so long paths traveled by water and the dominance of very permeable sediments favored the low saline contents. The design of the hydrological database in a GIS is useful for environmental management