Identifying the Controls on Flow and Contaminant Distribution in Siliciclastic Bedrock Aquifer Systems

Background/Need: Sandstone aquifers are commonly assumed to be homogeneous porous media dominated by intergranular flow. However, recent studies suggest that heterogeneous features, such as fractures, can be prevalent in sandstone aquifers and can significantly affect the aquifer flow regime. It has long been recognized that heterogeneity and preferential flowpaths significantly influence contaminant transport and distribution. As a result, identifying fractures in sandstone aquifers and determining their impact on aquifer flow is necessary to have an accurate understanding of system behavior.
Objectives: The goal of this research is to determine the degree to which heterogeneous features such as fractures control flow in the Cambrian aquifer system of southcentral Wisconsin.