Ground-Water Conditions in Arkansas River Valley in the Vicinity of Hutchinson, Kansas

Abstract

This report presents the results of an investigation of the geology and ground-water conditions near Hutchinson, Kansas. The investigation was made with special reference to the possibility of developing ground water of good chemical quality for municipal supply.

The report contains a map showing the areal geology and water-table contours, logs of 40 test holes and wells, and results of mechanical analyses and determinations of permeability of samples of the water-bearing materials penetrated by the test drill. The coefficient of permeability for most of the samples tested ranged from 1,000 to 15,000 (Meinzer's units). The chemical character of the ground waters in this area, as shown by analyses of 63 samples of water collected from test holes and wells, varies widely. In places the ground water is contaminated by intrusion of salt water from streams and industrial wastes. Several maps and graphs illustrating the quality of the ground water are included.

Estimates of the quantity of water available for pumping in the several parts of the area are based on studies of recharge from precipitation, yield of wells, and physical properties of the water-bearing materials. Large quantities of water are available in most parts of the area, and the quantity and quality of the water in each of several sub-areas is discussed. The area along the border of the sand dunes at the edge of Arkansas River Valley north and east of Hutchinson appears most promising for the development of a supply of water of chemical quality suitable for municipal use.