--> Abstract: Contamination of Shallow Aquifers in Utah, by J. D. Smith; #90993 (1993).

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SMITH, JAMES D., Utah Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining, Salt Lake City, UT

ABSTRACT: Contamination of Shallow Aquifers in Utah

Groundwater systems in many areas of Utah are typified by a shallow unconfined water table and a deeper confined aquifer. Groundwater usage is mainly from the confined systems, but water use planners are looking at contamination problems in the vadose zone and shallow groundwater systems as having long-term potential for impacting the deeper systems, and also are contemplating the need to exploit the shallow water in the future as demand increases.

Nonpoint source pollutants, such as urban runoff and agricultural/horticultural chemicals, have major impacts on the shallow unconfined systems, but leakage from underground storage tank systems is currently seen as the greatest threat to the quality of this water. Areas of shallow groundwater contamination are identified by soil and water analyses and also by complaints from such sources as water users, sewer operators, and building residents. Petroleum products are the principal contaminants.

Several areas in Utah have significant shallow groundwater contamination. Near-surface geology and local hydrogeology affect the magnitude of this contamination and remedial efforts.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90993©1993 AAPG Rocky Mountain Section Meeting, Salt Lake City, Utah, September 12-15, 1993.