Quantitative Analysis of Geochemistry and Flow Dynamics in Great Onyx Groundwater Basin

Overview

Due to their unpredictable nature and large area that they cover, much energy has been put into developing the knowledge of karst landscapes and the vulnerable aquifer systems they contain. Many techniques have been developed over time that allow groundwater to be traced through underground passages. This research project utilized fluorescent dye tracing, water chemistry monitoring, and flow measurements to better understand the Great Onyx Groundwater Basin, a continuation of a long-term hydrogeological study started in 2017 by Crawford Hydrology Laboratory. Specifically, high-resolution data sondes were used to collect pH, specific conductivity, temperature, and water level at Great Onyx Spring and Cascade Falls within Great Onyx Cave. Two separate dye traces were conducted using Fluorescein to determine the time of travel between Great Onyx Cave and Great Onyx Spring. The first injection was unexpectedly followed by a storm event, and the second was conducted during fall base flow conditions . Analysis of quantitative data revealed average flow velocity, allowed comparison of breakthrough curves during different antecedent conditions, and the evaluation of temporal differences between geochemical parameters at Cascade Falls and Great Onyx Spring. The data collected within this study adds to the overall knowledge of karst landscapes, provides resource managers within Mammoth Cave National Park with crucial information and paves the way for many studies to come.

Competition history

• AJAS 2025 Category not listed

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