Publication Date

1996

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Carpenter, Philip J.

Degree Name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Legacy Department

Department of Geology

LCSH

Hydrogeology--Maryland--Chesapeake Bay Region (Md. and Va.); Estuaries--Maryland--Chesapeake Bay Region (Md. and Va.); Seismic reflection method; Geology--Maryland--Chesapeake Bay Region (Md. and Va.)

Abstract

The present near-surface hydrogeologic framework model impedes the understanding and remediation of environmental problems over source areas of Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD (APG). To refine this conceptual hydrogeologic model, high-resolution, single-channel, marine seismic reflection profiles were collected in the Bush River, Gunpowder River, and Chesapeake Bay areas of APG. The distribution and geometry of paleochannels in the near-surface aquifers were specific targets of this investigation. The best data were collected in areas where wave action removed or prohibited deposition of fine-grained sediments containing biogenic gas. Data collection was therefore limited to shoreline-parallel transects in water depths less than 3 meters. Of the nearly 120 km of shoreline surveyed during this investigation, 50 km of high quality data were interpreted as 16 seismic sections. Three major erosional unconformities, representing Pleistocene paleochannels, were identified from this seismic data. Modem creeks and their adjacent wetlands are associated with underlying paleochannels. These marshes were commonly used as waste disposal areas. Nested paleochannel deposits, which could connect the surficial aquifer with the Canal Creek aquifer, were also identified. This shallow water, high-resolution, marine seismic reflection study serves as a reconnaissance-type survey for characterizing the regional hydrostratigraphic framework. The areal distribution of paleochannel deposits, together with their vertical configuration, offers potential pathways for offsite migration of contaminants, as governed by hydraulic head conditions. Conceptual hydrogeological models should include these complex paleochannel deposits as an integral element, and their distribution should be investigated by more detailed geophysical and hydrogeological studies.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references (pages 174-177)

Extent

xii, 177 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

Download

Share

COinS