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Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Document
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Title:
Groundwater study, Study plan Section 7.5 : Initial study report
SuWa 207
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Prepared by Geo-Watershed Scientific
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Draft initial study report
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Series (ARLIS-assigned report number):
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project document number 207
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Published by:
[Anchorage : Alaska Energy Authority, 2014]
Date published:
February 2014
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Alaska Energy Authority
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Study plan Section 7.5
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Draft
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Pagination:
301 p. in various pagings
(including all parts)
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Notes:
The following parts of Section 7.5 appear in separate files: Main report ; Figures ; Appendices.
All reports in the Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Document series include an ARLIS-
produced cover page and an ARLIS-assigned number for uniformity and citability. All reports
are posted online at http://www.arlis.org/resources/susitna-watana/
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project
(FERC No. 14241)
Groundwater Study
Study Plan Section 7.5
Initial Study Report
Prepared for
Alaska Energy Authority
Prepared by
Geo-Watershed Scientific
February 2014 Draft
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page i February 2014 Draft
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary ...................................................................................................................... x
1. Introduction............................................................................................................................ 1
2. Study Objectives .................................................................................................................... 2
3. Study Area .............................................................................................................................. 3
4. Methods .................................................................................................................................. 3
4.1. Existing Data Synthesis ................................................................................................. 3
4.1.1. Variances ............................................................................................................ 4
4.2. Geohydrologic Process-Domains ................................................................................... 4
4.2.1. Variances ............................................................................................................ 5
4.3. Watana Dam/Reservoir .................................................................................................. 5
4.3.1. Variances ............................................................................................................ 6
4.4. Upwelling / Springs Broad-Scale Mapping ................................................................... 7
4.4.1. Variances ............................................................................................................ 8
4.5. Riparian Vegetation Dependency on Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ......... 8
4.5.1. Variances .......................................................................................................... 13
4.6. Aquatic Habitat Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ........................................ 13
4.6.1. Variances .......................................................................................................... 15
4.7. Water Quality in Selected Habitats .............................................................................. 15
4.7.1. Variances .......................................................................................................... 16
4.8. Winter Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ...................................................... 16
4.8.1. Variances .......................................................................................................... 17
4.9. Shallow Groundwater Users ........................................................................................ 17
4.9.1. Variances .......................................................................................................... 18
5. Results ................................................................................................................................... 18
5.1. Existing Data Synthesis ............................................................................................... 18
5.2. Geohydrologic Process-Domains ................................................................................. 18
5.3. Watana Dam/Reservoir ................................................................................................ 19
5.4. Upwelling / Springs Broad-Scale Mapping ................................................................. 19
5.5. Riparian Vegetation Dependency on Groundwater / Surface Water Interactions ....... 19
5.6. Aquatic Habitat Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ........................................ 21
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page ii February 2014 Draft
5.7. Water Quality in Selected Habitats .............................................................................. 22
5.8. Winter Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ...................................................... 23
5.9. Shallow Groundwater Users ........................................................................................ 24
6. Discussion ............................................................................................................................. 25
6.1. Existing Data Synthesis ............................................................................................... 25
6.2. Geohydrologic Process-Domains ................................................................................. 25
6.3. Watana Dam/Reservoir ................................................................................................ 25
6.4. Upwelling / Springs Broad-Scale Mapping ................................................................. 26
6.5. Riparian Vegetation Dependency on Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ....... 26
6.6. Aquatic Habitat Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ........................................ 26
6.7. Water Quality in Selected Habitats .............................................................................. 27
6.8. Winter Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions ...................................................... 27
6.9. Shallow Groundwater Users ........................................................................................ 28
7. Completing the Study .......................................................................................................... 28
8. Literature Cited ................................................................................................................... 28
9. Tables .................................................................................................................................... 31
10. Figures .................................................................................................................................. 41
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page iii February 2014 Draft
LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.5-1. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection
stations at FA-138 (Gold Creek). ........................................................................................... 31
Table 4.5-2. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection
stations at FA-128 (Slough 8A). ............................................................................................ 32
Table 4.5-3. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection
stations at FA-115 (Slough 6A). ............................................................................................ 34
Table 4.5-4. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection
stations at FA-104 (Whiskers Slough). .................................................................................. 35
Table 4.5-5. Groundwater Study Focus Area time-lapse camera locations and intended study
applications. ........................................................................................................................... 37
Table 4.5-6. Processes, data collection parameters and associated sensors that will be used for
the Groundwater Study at selected Focus Areas. .................................................................. 40
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3-1. Susitna Watershed basin boundaries, showing the Project designation of upper,
middle and lower river segments. .......................................................................................... 42
Figure 3-2. Susitna Watershed Middle River Segment, with geomorphic reaches and Focus
Areas indicated. ..................................................................................................................... 43
Figure 3-3. Susitna Watershed Lower River Segment, with geomorphic reaches indicated. ...... 44
Figure 4.5-1. Data collection station short name convention used for continuously monitored
stations. .................................................................................................................................. 45
Figure 4.5-2. General location of FA-138 (Gold Creek) Focus Area, showing major data
collection points and aquatic and riparian transects. ............................................................. 46
Figure 4.5-3. General location of FA-128 (Slough 8A) Focus Area, showing major data
collection points and aquatic and riparian transects. ............................................................. 47
Figure 4.5-4. General location of FA-115 (Slough 6A) Focus Area, showing major data
collection points and riparian transect. .................................................................................. 48
Figure 4.5-5. General location of FA-113 (Oxbow 1) Focus Area, showing major data
collection points for supporting aquatic studies. ................................................................... 49
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page iv February 2014 Draft
Figure 4.5-6. General location of FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) Focus Area, showing major
data collection points and aquatic and riparian transects.. ..................................................... 50
Figure 4.5-7. Riparian process domains on the Middle River with locations of associated
Riparian IFS Focus Areas that have GW/SW data collection activities. ............................... 51
Figure 4.5-8. Location of station ESGLR1-1 in the Lower River geomorphic reach LR1. ........ 52
Figure 4.5-9. Location of station ESGLR2-1 in the Lower River geomorphic reach LR2. ........ 53
Figure 4.5-10. Location of station ESGLR3-1 in the Lower River geomorphic reach LR3. ...... 54
Figure 4.5-11. Location of station ESGLR4-1 and ESGLR4-2 in the Lower River
geomorphic reach LR4. ......................................................................................................... 55
Figure 4.5-12. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at FA-138
(Gold Creek) Focus Area. ...................................................................................................... 56
Figure 4.5-13. Inset A (left) and B (right) show locations of aquatic transect stations with
continuously measured parameters at FA-138 (Gold Creek) Focus Area. ............................ 57
Figure 4.5-14. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at FA-128 (Slough 8A)
Focus Area. ............................................................................................................................ 58
Figure 4.5-15. Inset A (left) and B (right) show locations of aquatic transect stations with
continuously measured parameters at FA-128 (Slough 8A) Focus Area. ............................. 59
Figure 4.5-16. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at FA-115 (Slough 6A)
Focus Area. ............................................................................................................................ 60
Figure 4.5-17. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at FA-113 (Oxbow 1)
Focus Area. ............................................................................................................................ 61
Figure 4.5-18. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at FA-104 (Whiskers
Slough) Focus Area. .............................................................................................................. 62
Figure 4.5-19. Inset A (left) and B (right) show locations of aquatic transects with
continuously measured parameters at FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) Focus Area. ................... 63
Figure 4.5-20. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at Lower River Transect
Groundwater Station ESGLR1-1. .......................................................................................... 64
Figure 4.5-21. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at Lower River Transect
Groundwater Station ESGLR2-1. .......................................................................................... 65
Figure 4.5-22. Well location and continuously measured parameters at Lower River Transect
Groundwater Station ESGLR3-1. .......................................................................................... 66
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page v February 2014 Draft
Figure 4.5-23. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at Lower River Transect
Groundwater Station ESGLR4-1. .......................................................................................... 67
Figure 4.5-24. Well locations and continuously measured parameters at Lower River Transect
Groundwater Station ESGLR4-2. .......................................................................................... 68
Figure 4.5-25. Process of using empirical data, observations, numerical modeling and
concluding analysis to evaluation hydrology processes and interactions. ............................. 69
Figure 4.6-1. Image from FA-104 (Whiskers Slough), surface-water station ESSFA104-1. ...... 70
Figure 4.6-2. A typical groundwater data station. ....................................................................... 70
Figure 5.1-1 Example of 1980s reference map for slough hydrology studies in FA-128
(Slough 8A). .......................................................................................................................... 71
Figure 5.2-1. October 31, 2013 aerial observations of the groundwater recharge zone for
FA-144 (Slough 21), which is just downstream of the power line cut visible on the right-
hand side of the image. .......................................................................................................... 71
Figure 5.3-1. October 3, 2013 flow conditions at the high pool elevation for the proposed
reservoir operations, looking downstream at the left bank. ................................................... 72
Figure 5.3-2. October 3, 2013 proposed high pool elevation, looking upstream at the
left bank. ................................................................................................................................ 72
Figure 5.4-1. Example of water quality data processed to support Water Quality Study’s
Thermal Infrared (TIR) imagery in the FA-113 (Oxbow 1) Focus Area. ............................. 73
Figure 5.4-2. Example of water quality data processed to support Water Quality Study’s
Thermal Infrared (TIR) imagery in the Curry area at hydrology station ESS50. .................. 73
Figure 5.5-1. Example of groundwater and surface water level changes in the Riparian
Transect in FA-115 (Slough 6A) from groundwater station ESGFA115-5. ......................... 74
Figure 5.5-2. Example of groundwater and surface temperature changes in the Riparian
Transect in FA-115 (Slough 6A) from groundwater station ESGFA115-5. ......................... 74
Figure 5.5-3. Example of groundwater level changes in the Riparian Transect in FA-104
(Whiskers Slough) from groundwater station ESGFA104-8. ................................................ 75
Figure 5.5-4. Example of groundwater level changes in the Riparian Transect in FA-104
(Whiskers Slough) from groundwater station ESGFA104-3. ................................................ 75
Figure 5.5-5. Example of soil temperature conditions in the Riparian Transect in FA-104
(Whiskers Slough) from meteorological station ESMFA104-2. ........................................... 76
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page vi February 2014 Draft
Figure 5.5-6. Example of soil moisture conditions in the Riparian Transect in FA-104
(Whiskers Slough) from meteorological station ESMFA104-2. ........................................... 76
Figure 5.5-7. Example of solar radiation variation in the Riparian Transect in FA-115
(Slough 6A) from meteorological station ESMFA115-1. ..................................................... 77
Figure 5.6-1. Example of groundwater and surface water measurements in the Aquatic
Transect in FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from groundwater station ESGFA104-10. ............. 77
Figure 5.6-2. Example of groundwater and surface-water interactions in the Aquatic
Transect in FA-113 (Oxbow 1) from groundwater station ESGFA113-1. ............................ 78
Figure 5.7-1. Example of water temperature in groundwater and surface water in the Aquatic
Transect in FA-113 (Oxbow 1) from groundwater station ESGFA113-1. ............................ 78
Figure 5.7-2. Example of streambed temperature measurements in the Aquatic Transect
in FA-113 (Oxbow 1) from groundwater station ESGFA113-1. ........................................... 79
Figure 5.7-3. Example of groundwater and surface water temperature at the Aquatic
Transect in FA-138 (Slough 11) from groundwater station ESGFA138-1. .......................... 79
Figure 5.7-4. Example of streambed temperature measurements in the Aquatic Transect
in FA-138 (Slough 11) from groundwater station ESGFA138-1. ......................................... 80
Figure 5.7-5. Example of selected streambed temperature measurements in the Aquatic
Transect in FA-138 (Gold Creek) from groundwater station ESGFA138-2. ........................ 80
Figure 5.7-6. Example of streambed temperature measurement and the water level in Upper
Side Channel 11 in the Aquatic Transect in FA-138 (Gold Creek) from groundwater
station ESGFA138-2. ............................................................................................................. 81
Figure 5.7-7. Example of streambed temperature measurement in the Aquatic Transect in
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from groundwater station ESGFA104-9. .................................. 81
Figure 5.7-8. Example of streambed temperature measurement in the Aquatic Transect in
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from surface-water station ESSFA104-1. ................................. 82
Figure 5.7-9. Example of streambed temperature measurement in the Aquatic Transect in
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from groundwater station ESGFA104-10. ................................ 82
Figure 5.7-10. Example of streambed temperature measurement in the Aquatic Transect in
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from groundwater station ESGFA104-10. ................................ 83
Figure 5.7-11. Example of uses for time-lapse images in FA-128 (Slough 8A) from surface-
water station ESGFA128-1. ................................................................................................... 83
Figure 5.7-12. Example of uses for time-lapse images in FA-128 (Slough 8A) from surface-
water station ESGFA128-1. ................................................................................................... 84
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page vii February 2014 Draft
Figure 5.8-10. Example of slough conditions in FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from camera
station ESCFA104-22. ........................................................................................................... 84
Figure 5.8-11. Example of slough conditions in FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from camera
station ESCFA104-22. ........................................................................................................... 85
Figure 5.8-12. Example of slough conditions in FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) from camera
station ESCFA104-22. ........................................................................................................... 85
Figure 5.9-1. Example of a home owner well that has had a self-logging pressure transducer
added, which record water level and temperature. ................................................................ 86
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Example 1970 and 2011 Focus Area Aerial Imagery
Appendix B: Data-Collection Station Metadata Examples
Appendix C: Data-Collection Station Programs and Wiring Diagram Examples
Appendix D: Selected Focus Area Time-Lapse Photo Examples
Appendix E: Level-Loop Survey and Survey Control Points Examples
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page viii February 2014 Draft
LIST OF ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS
Abbreviation Definition
AEA Alaska Energy Authority
ARLIS Alaska Resources Library and Information Services
ARRC Alaska Railroad Corporation
cm centimeter
DO dissolved oxygen
FA Focus Area
FERC Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
GIS
Geographic Information System. An integrated collection of computer software and data
used to view and manage information about geographic places, analyze spatial
relationships, and model spatial processes.
GPS Global positioning system. A system of radio-emitting and -receiving satellites used for
determining positions on the earth.
GW groundwater
GW/SW Groundwater/Surface Water
GWS Geo-Watersheds Scientific
GWSI USGS Groundwater Site Inventory
HSC Habitat Suitability Criteria
HSI Habitat Suitability Index
ISR Initial Study Report
LiDAR Light Detection and Ranging. An optical remote sensing technology that can measure the
distance to a target; can be used to create a topographic map.
NAVD88 North American Vertical Datum of 1988
PRM Project River Mile; determined during 2012-2013 studies
QC Quality Control
RIFS Riparian Instream Flow Study
RPD Riparian Process Domain
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page ix February 2014 Draft
Abbreviation Definition
RSP Revised Study Plan
RTK Real Time Kinematic
SPD Study Plan Determination
TIR Thermal Infrared
TM Technical Memorandum
TWG Technical Work Group
USGS United States Geological Survey
USR Updated Study Report
WELTS Well Log Tracking System
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page x February 2014 Draft
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Groundwater Study 7.5
Purpose The Groundwater Study is one part of a set of interdisciplinary resource
studies that are designed to evaluate the overall effects of the Susitna-Watana
Hydroelectric Project (Project) operations. The Groundwater Study is
specifically linked with both the Riparian Instream Flow Study and the Fish
and Aquatics Instream Flow Study since the ecological functionality of
riparian and aquatic habitats can be directly influenced by
groundwater/surface water (GW/SW) interactions. The Groundwater Study
uses existing information and data, as well as newly collected data to provide
an overall understanding of GW/SW interactions in support of the Aquatic
Instream Flow Study, Riparian Instream Flow Study, Water Quality Study,
Ice Processes Study and Geomorphology Study.
Status The Groundwater Study was initiated in 2013. Groundwater Study FSP 2013
data collection program was successfully completed, meeting all objectives.
Automated data collection stations for measuring groundwater, surface water,
soil, meteorological, streambed temperature profiles and water quality
conditions were installed in five Focus Areas. Sixty six (66) groundwater
wells were installed in various Focus Areas as planned. Data collection
locations and elevations were established to Project survey standards. The
groundwater, surface water, water quality, meteorological, and ice processes
data collection stations are continuously collecting data with a majority of the
stations on a telemetry network providing study teams regular, near-real-time,
data access.
Study
Components
The Groundwater Study has nine study elements. These include: (1) existing
data synthesis, (2) geohydrologic process-domains and terrain; (3) Watana
Dam/Reservoir, (4) upwelling/springs broad-scale mapping, (5) riparian
vegetation dependency on GW/SW interactions, (6) fish habitat GW/SW
interactions, (7) water quality in selected habitats, (8) winter GW/SW
interactions, and (9) shallow groundwater users. The majority of the
Groundwater Study efforts are supporting aquatic and riparian habitat
evaluations. Aquatic evaluations include observations and measurements of
basic surface-water and groundwater hydrology and water quality processes.
Riparian evaluations include measurements, modeling, and analysis of
groundwater and surface-water interactions and moisture flux and soil pore-
water availability in the unsaturated soils above shallow water tables.
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page xi February 2014 Draft
Groundwater Study 7.5
2013 Variances AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the
exception of the variances listed below.
• The schedule for completion of the annotated bibliography and literature
review was adjusted to be complete in the next year of study. (See
Section 4.1.1)
• The schedule for completion of the mapping of geohydrologic units and
associated analysis will be completed in the next year of the study. (See
Section 4.2.1)
• The schedule for completion of the groundwater flow models, including
model input and calibration data sets, files and model documentation was
rescheduled into the next year of the study. (See Section 4.5.1)
• The schedule for completion of the groundwater flow models, including
model input and calibration data sets, files and model documentation was
rescheduled into the next year of the study. (See Section 4.6.1)
• The schedule for completion of the groundwater flow models, including
model input and calibration data sets, files and model documentation was
rescheduled into the next year of the study. (See Section 4.7.1)
• Water quality data from other studies completed in the first study year
will be used in the next year of study to describe the differences between
productive and non-productive habitat types. (See Section 4.7.1)
Steps to
Complete the
Study
As explained in the cover letter to this draft ISR, AEA’s plan for completing
this study will be included in the final ISR filed with FERC on June 3, 2014.
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page xii February 2014 Draft
Groundwater Study 7.5
Highlighted
Results and
Achievements
The Groundwater Study began installation of data collection stations in spring
2013 and completed all the planned 57 station installations and 66 shallow
groundwater wells by end of summer field operations. Data collection was
ongoing during this period at continuously operated stations. Manual
empirical measurements of groundwater and surface water were also made in
support of project objectives. Data station collection efforts are ongoing
during the winter season. Empirical data collected, and field observations
through the spring, summer, fall and early winter periods of the hydrologic
cycle, have resulted in a more complete and defensible understanding of
existing groundwater conditions. Furthermore, these observations contribute
to the characterization of important habitat elements. Observations from the
groundwater, surface-water and meteorological stations provide all of the
physical process modeling efforts (aquatic IFS, riparian IFS, water quality,
geomorphology, and ice processes) on-the-ground empirical verification
benchmarks for calibration and verification of the physical process models.
Shallow groundwater was found to be prevalent in the Middle River portion
of study area. Hillslope hydrological contributions from adjacent sides of the
river valley to the floodplain were observed and measured. These include;
springs and seeps, upland beaver ponds, areas without winter snow due to
shallow groundwater conditions, and observed open water conditions in a
majority of the sloughs and creeks (open leads).
Interactions between river stage and groundwater processes were observed
and measured. Field observations and data collection are ongoing daily
through the winter period and will continue during the second year of the
study.
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 1 February 2014 Draft
1. INTRODUCTION
On December 14, 2012, Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) filed its Revised Study Plan (RSP) with
the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) for the Susitna-Watana
Hydroelectric Project, FERC Project No. 14241, which included 58 individual study plans (AEA
2012). Included within the RSP was the Groundwater Study (GW), Section 7.5. RSP Section 7.5
focuses on providing an overall understanding of Groundwater/Surface Water (GW/SW)
interactions at both the watershed- and local-scales.
On February 1, 2013, FERC staff issued its study determination (February 1 Study Plan
Determination (SPD)) for 44 of the 58 studies, approving 31 studies as filed and 13 with
modifications. On April 1, 2013 FERC issued its study determination (April 1 SPD) for the
remaining 14 studies; approving 1 study as filed and 13 with modifications. RSP Section 7.5
was one of the 13 approved with modifications. In its April 1 SPD, FERC recommended the
following:
Evapotranspiration Model
- We recommend that AEA consult with the TWG on the construction of the necessary data
sets for the MODFLOW RIP-ET package, and file no later than June 30, 2013, the
following:
1) A detailed description of the specific methods to be used to relate the data of Study
11.6 (riparian vegetation) to plant functional groups.
2) A detailed description of the specific methods to be used to relate the rooting depth
data from Study 8.6 (riparian instream flow) and the water level data from Study 7.5
(groundwater) to extinction and saturated extinction depths.
3) A detailed description of the specific methods to be used to estimate the shape of the
transpiration flux curves.
4) Documentation of consultation with the TWG, including how its comments were
addressed.
Consultation on the interrelated riparian vegetation, riparian instream flow and riparian GW/SW
study plans was accomplished with Technical Working Group (TWG) representatives in two
meetings; held April 23, 2013 and June 6, 2013. Licensing participants were provided the
opportunity to address technical details and concerns regarding the study’s approaches and
methods.
The Riparian Instream Flow, Groundwater, and Riparian Vegetation Studies FERC
Determination Response Technical Memorandum (Riparian/GW TM) summarizes details
concerning sampling design, proposed field protocols and analytical methodologies related to
FERC Determination requests (R2 Resource Consultants et al. 2013). The document is
organized to address details for each of the three RSPs: Groundwater Study 7.5, Riparian
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 2 February 2014 Draft
Instream Flow Study 8.6, and Riparian Vegetation Study 11.6. The Riparian/GW TM was filed
with FERC on July 1, 2013.
Following the first study season, FERC’s regulations for the Integrated Licensing Process (ILP)
require AEA to “prepare and file with the Commission an initial study report describing its
overall progress in implementing the study plan and schedule and the data collected, including an
explanation of any variance from the study plan and schedule.” (18 CFR 5.15(c)(1)) This Initial
Study Report on the Groundwater Study has been prepared in accordance with FERC’s ILP
regulations and details AEA’s status in implementing the study, as set forth in the FERC-
approved RSP and as modified by FERC’s April 1 SPD and Riparian/GW TM (collectively
referred to herein as the “Study Plan”).
2. STUDY OBJECTIVES
The nine study objectives were established in RSP Section 7.5.1:
1. Synthesize historical and contemporary groundwater data available for the Susitna River
groundwater and groundwater dependent aquatic and floodplain habitat, including that
from the 1980s and other studies including reviews of GW/SW interactions in cold
regions.
2. Use the available groundwater data to characterize large-scale geohydrologic process-
domains/terrain of the Susitna River (e.g., geology, topography, geomorphology, regional
aquifers, shallow groundwater aquifers, GW/SW interactions).
3. Assess the potential effects of Watana Dam/Reservoir on groundwater and groundwater-
influenced aquatic habitats in the vicinity of the proposed dam.
4. Work with other resource studies to map groundwater-influenced aquatic and floodplain
habitat (e.g., upwelling areas, springs, groundwater-dependent wetlands) within the
Middle River Segment of the Susitna River including within selected Focus Areas (see
Fish and Aquatic Instream Flow Study Section 8.5.4.2.1.2).
5. Determine the GW/SW relationships of floodplain shallow alluvial aquifers within
selected Focus Areas as part of the Riparian Instream Flow Study (Riparian Instream
Flow Study, Section 8.6).
6. Determine GW/SW relationships of upwelling/downwelling in relation to spawning,
incubation, and rearing habitat (particularly in the winter) within selected Focus Areas as
part of the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Fish and Aquatic Instream Flow
Study 8.5).
7. Characterize water quality (e.g., temperature, dissolved oxygen [DO], conductivity) of
selected upwelling areas that provide biological cues for fish spawning and juvenile
rearing, in Focus Areas as part of the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Fish and
Aquatic Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5)).
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Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 3 February 2014 Draft
8. Characterize the winter flow in the Susitna River and how it relates to GW/SW
interactions.
9. Characterize the relationship between the Susitna River flow regime and shallow
groundwater users (e.g., domestic wells).
3. STUDY AREA
As established by RSP Section 7.5.3, the study area related to groundwater processes includes
primarily the Middle River Segment of the Susitna River that extends from PRM 102.4 to PRM
187.1 as well as portions of the Lower River Segment associated with domestic wells and
riparian transect locations in the Lower River, and the lower most portion of the Upper River
Segment near the proposed dam site associated with potential groundwater changes relative to
reservoir construction and operations. Figure 3-1 shows these river segments and the general
watershed boundary of the Susitna River. Figure 3-2 shows the location of Instream Flow Study
(Section 8.5, 8.6) Focus Areas and geomorphic reaches for the Middle River Segment. Figure 3-
3 shows the Lower River Segment with the geomorphic reaches defined.
Following the completion of the Open-water Flow Routing Model in Q1 2013, the study areas
for the riparian studies, including the riparian vegetation study, was extended to PRM 29.5. This
increase in Riparian IFS activities in the Lower River was supported by the Groundwater Study.
4. METHODS
The Groundwater Study is divided into nine study components related to the study objectives
outlined above: (1) existing data synthesis, (2) geohydrologic process-domains and terrain; (3)
Watana Dam/Reservoir, (4) upwelling/springs broad-scale mapping, (5) riparian vegetation
dependency on GW/SW interactions, (6) fish habitat GW/SW interactions, (7) water quality in
selected habitats, (8) winter GW/SW interactions, and (9) shallow groundwater users. Each of
the components and its related study methods are explained further in the following subsections.
The methods described represent standard approaches for summarizing data and assessing the
physical/biological processes related to groundwater and aquatic habitat. Many of the study
components represent contributory elements of other resource studies; for example, the fourth
component, upwelling/springs mapping is linked to the Ice Processes Study (Study 7.6),
Geomorphology Study (Study 6.5), Water Quality Study (Study 5.5), and the Fish and Aquatics
Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5). Likewise, the seventh component, Water Quality, is linked to
the Water Quality Study (Study 5.5) and the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5).
4.1. Existing Data Synthesis
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of variances
explained below (Section 4.1.1). Data from prior Susitna River hydroelectric evaluations and
other studies is being used to help develop a detailed reference set of available data to access
GW/SW interactions and processes related to potential Project operations and design. The
addition of the historical data will help provide a more thorough review of the geohydrology of
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the watershed and relevant GW/SW interactions (summer and winter) and how these interactions
may change under the various Project operational designs. The use of existing information will
also help meet the need for detailed analysis under the proposed Project timeframe. The specific
steps of the data synthesis include the following:
• Identify existing reports and data from the 1980s licensing effort, prior studies, and more
recent studies that relate to geology and geohydrology of the Susitna River watershed and
GW/SW interactions and related aquatic habitat in the Susitna River. The reference
search will include any information related to the past geohydrology studies, groundwater
data and information related to main channel interactions, and impacts of winter
hydrology (ice, snow, water processes and interaction) on groundwater and surface-water
interactions. An example of the information discovered for this effort is seen in Appendix
A, which shows a series of image comparisons from a 1970s set of infrared aerial images
found in University of Alaska Fairbanks archives, which had not been previously known
to be available in Susitna River resource collections.
• Identify similar studies, reports, and data for hydroelectric projects in northern latitudes
and cold climates including reviews of GW/SW interactions in cold regions. The
literature search for this task will be coordinated with the University of Alaska Fairbanks
– Geophysical Institute Keith B. Mather Library and the Alaska Resources Library and
Information Services (ARLIS) library, which already contains extensive references to
northern research basins and circumpolar literature sources. The ARLIS library will help
obtain references for the study and will house select references that can be distributed
under the reference copyright authorizations. References obtained through study activities
will be available online when possible under the applicable copyright restrictions.
• Identify applicable geology, soils, and other geohydrologic references for the Susitna
River watershed. Information and references will be used that are collected by the
Geology and Soils Characterization Study (Study 4.5) and the Ice Processes Study (Study
7.6). Water quality data and references will be provided by the Baseline Water Quality
Study (Study 5.5) for groundwater and surface water. Additional water quality data will
be provided by the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5) historical
information reviews.
4.1.1. Variances
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of the
variances described below.
• The schedule for completion of the annotated bibliography and literature review was
adjusted to be complete in the next year of study. This will allow additional information
to be incorporated from the 1980s references located that the ARLIS library is still
processing. This change in schedule will not impact the objectives of the study.
4.2. Geohydrologic Process-Domains
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of variances
explained below (Section 4.2.1). Project operations effects may influence GW/SW interactions at
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different locations along the river, from the proposed dam and reservoir location to below the
Three Rivers Confluence. Site-specific groundwater studies within select Focus Areas are being
used to help characterize these potential effects for key aquatic and riparian habitats. This is
being accomplished by first defining the significant geohydrologic units in the Susitna basin that
provide or affect groundwater recharge to the mainstem and associated main channel, side
channels, side sloughs, upland sloughs and wetlands.
ASTM standard D5979 “Standard Guide for Conceptualization and Characterization of
Groundwater Systems” is being used to help define the geohydrologic units (ASTM 2008b).
ASTM D6106 “Standard Guide for Establishing Nomenclature of Groundwater Aquifers” is
being used to help establish the aquifer nomenclature and naming of geohydrologic features
(ASTM 2010a). The geohydrologic units (e.g., bedrock, alluvial) are then related to
geomorphologic and riparian mapping units (process-domain river segments) in coordination
with the Geomorphology Study (Study 6.5) and Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6)
studies (Montgomery 1999). The geohydrologic units serve as a background layer to riparian
process domains, similar to soil or geology map units. The definition of geohydrologic units is
independent of riparian, fish, or aquatic habitat definitions.
The next step is to define the groundwater regional scale relationship to local flow systems in the
Middle River and Lower River segments and the relationship with the process-domain river
segments. This approach follows methods used on a similar study for the Tanana watershed, as
reported by Anderson (1970). ASTM standard D6106 is used to help characterize the
groundwater aquifers relevant to Project proposed operations. The final step is to identify the
relationship between the process-domain river segments and the planned Focus Areas. This will
facilitate the expansion of the analysis of potential Project effects on GW/SW interactions from
the Focus Area studies back to the larger process-domain river segments.
4.2.1. Variances
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of the
variances described below.
• The schedule for completion of the mapping of geohydrologic units and associated
analysis will be completed in the next year of the study. This will allow incorporation of
supporting information from other studies to be used to meet the study objectives. This
change in schedule will not impact the objectives of the study.
4.3. Watana Dam/Reservoir
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with no variances. Project
construction and operation may influence groundwater conditions downstream of the dam and
the characteristics of the discontinuous permafrost conditions in the vicinity of Project
operations. Variation in reservoir levels will result in transient head conditions on the upstream
side of the dam. Project Engineering Feasibility Studies (ongoing), the Geotechnical
Investigation Program, and the Geology and Soils Characterization Study (Study 4.5) are
providing information to help evaluate the groundwater conditions in the Project area and
evaluate the potential for groundwater impacts downstream of the dam. The analysis is first
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evaluating engineering geology information from the dam and reservoir area. This information
is being obtained from the Geology and Soils Characterization Study (Study 4.5) and past
geotechnical studies of the proposed dam location. This will include geologic well logs, pump
tests, seismic data if available, permafrost information, water level records and other
geotechnical information provided through the engineering and geology studies. The analysis
will require close coordination with engineering, as well as the Geomorphology and Fluvial
Geomorphology Modeling studies in the Middle River Segment (Studies 6.5 and 6.6,
respectively). This is important for identifying and applying data from existing programs and
determining the need for additional data collection.
Based on the information, a description of the pre-Project groundwater conditions is being
developed in the vicinity of the Watana Dam and Reservoir. This includes a characterization of
known permafrost and bedrock hydrogeology in the Watana Dam vicinity. From this,
conceptual GW/SW models are being developed that describe pre-Project conditions and post-
Project conditions. These models will assist in identifying key potential groundwater flow
pathways in the Project operations area (e.g., Deadman Creek drainage) and how the proposed
dam construction may affect groundwater flow. The engineering design of the dam includes a
goal of grouting all groundwater pathways that could be subject to groundwater flow bypassing
the dam. The conceptual models and empirical data are being used to evaluate the potential
changes in groundwater flow as a result of Project construction and operations.
The operation of the proposed reservoir will also result in aquatic and riparian habitat loss on the
Susitna River floodplain due to permanent inundation below the low pool level. Existing aquatic
and riparian habitat in the Susitna River floodplain at the upstream end of the reservoir will be
inundated for different durations between the low pool and high pool elevations. To evaluate
this, a field reconnaissance trip was conducted to collect site-specific data in October 2013 to
help characterize the area. Mapping data from the Geomorphology Study (Study 5.5) and the
Vegetation and Wildlife Habitat Mapping Study (Study 11.5), along with existing aerial and
LiDAR GIS information are being used to develop maps and cross-sections of the study area.
This combined information is being used to evaluate the timing and durations of inundation of
the potential riparian and aquatic habitats in the area at the upstream end of the reservoir.
Inundation timing and duration curves will be produced. Channel profile and cross-sections are
being produced.
4.3.1. Variances
No variances from the methods described in the Study Plan occurred during the 2013 study
season.
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4.4. Upwelling / Springs Broad-Scale Mapping
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with no variances. This study
component is focused on determining the locations of areas in the Middle River Segment and
upper portion of the Lower River Segment that are currently influenced by groundwater inflow.
This will rely upon work products developed from several other resource studies including the
Ice Processes Study (Study 7.6), Geomorphology Study (Study 6.5), and the Water Quality
Study (Study 5.5). These studies will collectively provide a suite of broad-scale mapping
information that will be used in identifying areas of groundwater influence. This component of
the Groundwater Study is developing the compilation, review, and interpretation of the different
mapping work products that will result in a GIS map layer that depicts groundwater-influenced
areas. This work is closely coordinated with the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study and
Riparian Instream Flow Study. The identification of these areas will be important for
understanding the spatial extent to which Project-induced effects to existing GW/SW interactions
may occur, and will help identify specific Focus Areas that warrant detailed groundwater study.
This study is relying on the following activities and work products provided from other resource
studies:
• Aerial and global positioning system (GPS) mapping of winter open leads, in Q1 and Q2
of 2013 as completed by the Ice Processes Study (Study 7.6). Open leads in the Middle
River Segment are being compared with the location of open leads documented in 1984–
1985, as appropriate. To provide some context, air temperatures from 1984–1985 will be
compared with air temperatures measured during the 2012–2013 and 2013–2014 winter
seasons from the closest long-term monitoring site with data covering both periods in
coordination with the Ice Processes Study. Geographic Information System (GIS)
coverage of the winter open leads is being developed. The Groundwater Study is
focusing on the entire Middle River Segment and the upper portion of the Lower River
Segment upstream from RM 84 (located near USGS Gage on Susitna River at Sunshine).
• Aerial photography and aerial videography of the ice-free period showing turbid and
clear water habitat that was completed in Q3 and Q4 2012 as part of the Geomorphology
Study (Study 6.5) and Characterization of Aquatic Habitats Study (Study 9.9). The aerial
photography and videography will be used in addition to site visits to document turbid
and clear water (i.e., groundwater-influenced) habitats. Clear water inflow from side
drainages (e.g., Portage Creek) will be separated from that dominated by groundwater
recharge (upwelling).
• Thermal Infrared Imagery (TIR) of the Middle River Segment of the Susitna River as
provided from a pilot study was completed during Q1 2013 as part of Water Quality
Study (Study 5.5). In coordination with the Fish and Aquatics Studies (Study 9) a
determination was made to collect additional TIR imaging data in the Lower River
Segment and in Focus Areas, and select tributary mouths and aquatic habitat areas in the
Middle River Segment. If TIR can successfully identify spatially discrete areas of
groundwater upwelling as validated through on-the-ground confirmatory surveys, then
these areas can be mapped within the entire river segment.
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• Observations of GW/SW interactions collected as part of the Habitat Suitability Criteria
(HSC) studies associated with spawning and/or rearing fish conducted under the Fish and
Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5.4.5.1.1.4), as well as fish tracking studies
completed as part of the Salmon Escapement Study (Study 9.7). In these studies, where
aggregations of spawning or rearing fish were observed, temperature probes were
installed to determine whether or not upwelling is present by using temperature vertical
profiling techniques (e.g., measuring the vertical temperature profile and measuring the
temperature along the bottom of the river along a transect).
• Characterize the identified upwelling/spring areas at a reconnaissance level to determine
if they are likely to be (1) mainstem flow/stage dependent, (2) regional/upland
groundwater dependent, or (3) mixed influence.
4.4.1. Variances
No variances from the methods described in the Study Plan occurred during the 2013 study
season.
4.5. Riparian Vegetation Dependency on Groundwater / Surface-
Water Interactions
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of variances
described below (Section 4.5.1). This study component is directly linked to the Riparian
Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6) and associated with a number of other multidisciplinary
resource studies that are jointly working on the Focus Areas including the Fish and Aquatics
Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5), Geomorphology Study (Study 6.5), Ice Processes Study (Study
7.6), and Water Quality Study (Study 5.5). The overall goal of this study component is to collect
information and data to define riparian vegetation and GW/SW interactions and function at a
number of Focus Area locations. Focus Area results will be used to extrapolate effects to the
riparian domain scale. These process relationship analyses will allow for assessment of potential
Project operation effects on GW/SW interactions and associated riparian vegetation.
Physical models, including surface water hydraulic (1-D and 2-D), geomorphic reach analyses,
GW/SW interactions, and ice processes will be integrated, allowing assessment of physical
process controls of riparian vegetation recruitment and establishment to be quantitatively
assessed (see Study 8.6) under both existing conditions and Project operation scenarios.
Empirical data are being collected at select Focus Areas to define riparian GW/SW interactions.
The data collection stations serve multiple study needs. The stations are identified by primary
station purpose (Figure 4.5-1), though most stations collect a wide range of data to provide
empirical data for multiple studies. The figures provide a key for using the station names. The
Focus Areas include FA-138 (Gold Creek) (Figure 4.5-2), FA-128 (Slough 8A) (Figure 4.5-3),
FA-115 (Slough 6A) (Figure 4.5-4), FA-113 (Oxbow 1) (Figure 4.5-5), and FA-104 (Whiskers
Slough) (Figure 4.5-6). Each of the Focus Areas is supporting activities of both aquatic and
riparian studies, except for FA-113 (Oxbow 1), which is primarily in support of aquatic instream
flow studies. Empirical data collection includes the use of shallow wells (piezometers) installed
at stations along the liner transects. Pressure transducers recording water level and temperature,
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temperature sensors, and selected water quality sensors and meters (conductivity, temperature) to
help characterize GW/SW interactions were installed in the wells. The use of conductivity
sensors in wells and streambeds are for detection of transient changes in GW/SW conditions and
less on actual conductivity levels because the sensors are buried and cannot have regular
maintenance and quality assurance checks. Professional judgment was used to select the transect
locations where hydrologic boundaries were likely to occur, such as slough and side channels.
Wells were placed to help describe the groundwater conditions at boundaries and at varying
distances from these boundaries to help measure the hydrologic boundary conditions and the
time lag in groundwater level response to changes in surface water stage.
Shallow groundwater wells were installed using the drive point method. This was an approach
similar to that used for some wells in the 1980s. Wells in the riparian sections were all
constructed with 1.5-inch galvanized pipe and well screen material. A Mobile Drill Minuteman
portable drill was used to pre-drill the holes to promote a faster installation of wells. Some wells
in areas with shallow groundwater were installed using a portable soil auger to pre-drill the
holes. Cobble and boulder substrate commonly caused well material to break and multiple drill
holes to be installed. Native material was used to fill any annular space at the surface, though this
was rarely needed due to the drive-point installation method. All wells were completed with a
top cap, or cover to help house instrumentation associated with the well monitoring. This same
installation approach was used for wells drilled for aquatic transects.
Well locations take into account the riparian vegetation mapping units. The Focus Areas that
have Groundwater Study activities are located in the Riparian Process Domain three and four
(Figure 4.5-7). Some wells were placed at boundaries of the groundwater model simulation
domains to provide model boundary input data, or validation datasets. Additional information,
such as unfrozen volumetric soil moisture content and soil temperature profiles, is being
measured to help understand the characteristics of active freeze/thaw processes and moisture
transfer from infiltration and underlying dynamic groundwater tables in shallow soils critical to
riparian root zones. Soil water content is being measured using content reflectometers at specific
soil depths (Model CS 650, Campbell Scientific, Inc., Logan UT) to determine available
moisture within the soil profile. Soil water content sensors were installed at 5, 10, 20, 50, 110,
and 200 cm and 5, 10, 25, 44, 65, and 85 cm in depth at FA-104 and FA-128, respectively. The
asymmetric levels were chosen to more accurately represent vertical variation in the rooting
depths (Wilson et al. 2001).
Precipitation data are also measured at the select Riparian Focus Areas. Shielded summer
precipitation gages were installed in summer 2013. This information will be compared with the
recent update to the statewide precipitation evaluation and new precipitation index maps.
Additionally, precipitation information collected by the Glacier and Runoff Changes Study
(Study 7.7) will be incorporated into the precipitation analysis for the Focus Areas.
A listing of the stations installed in the Focus Areas and a description of the measured
parameters are found in Tables 4.5-1 to 4.5-4. The short name, primary station purpose, and
measured parameters are presented in the table. The naming convention for the station short
name is shown in Figure 4.5-1. Time-lapse cameras were installed at locations in each Focus
Area to visually document surface water, riparian conditions, ice and snow conditions, and
groundwater influences on surface-water conditions. Most cameras are located at hydrologic
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features, such as slough, side channels and streams. The camera image data will support better
understanding of a number of processes, including the seasonal changes in vegetation (leaf-on,
growth, leaf-out), snowmelt, precipitation, general weather information, stage changes in surface
water features, water clarity (turbidity), and winter hydrology and ice processes. Table 4.5-5 lists
the time-lapse camera locations and the various features covered by each camera location.
The Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6) is also studying transects in the Lower River,
which involve an evaluation of GW/SW interactions and the relationship to riparian vegetation.
Each transect (LR1, LR2, and LR3) has a Groundwater Station with two wells, a surface-water
measurement point, and a time-lapse camera. Geomorphic reach LR4 has two stations to help
describe differences in the central portion of the river and at the eastern boundary of the braided
river reach. Figures 4.5-8 through 4.5-11 show the location of these five stations.
Figures 4.5-12 through 4.5-24 show the location of groundwater wells and continuously
measured parameters. Locations where surface-water stage and temperature, groundwater levels
and temperature, streambed and soil temperature profiles, and time-lapse images are shown for
each Focus Area in the Middle River and each riparian transect location in the Lower River
Segment.
Representative examples of data collection standards and other metadata are presented in
Appendix B with one example for each major station type. The full set of the station data
collection standards and output file formats are available for download at
http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. Representative examples of the Campbell Scientific Inc. data
collection station programs and wiring diagrams are found in Appendix C.
Empirical data are being used to quantify, model, and analyze the relationship between
floodplain shallow water-table aquifers and floodplain plant community types. The importance
of the empirical data for understanding the hydrologic processes, developing numerical GW/SW
models, and developing the final relationship and analysis approaches is shown in Figure 4.5-25.
Another part of the data collection program to support aquatic and riparian habitat evaluations is
the use of time-lapse camera systems. These cameras are described in more detail in Section 4.8.
The camera images are an important form of empirical data to understand the hydrology and
riparian vegetation conditions on an annual basis. Example representative images from time-
lapse cameras are shown in Appendix D.
In GW/SW stations, the minimum recording interval for water levels, temperature, and other
parameters is 15 minutes. At stations with Campbell Scientific Inc. data acquisition and control
systems, hourly maximum, minimum, and average values will be recorded, as well as daily
statistics. The data collection intervals are intended to provide data for studying and
understanding transient pressure responses in the water-table aquifer systems and to provide
input, calibration and validation datasets for groundwater model development, and simulation
goals. Groundwater monitoring programs began on a small scale in winter 2012–2013 and
increased during the summer of 2013.
Survey standards are important for any hydrology program. Elevation accuracy is very important
when studying systems that have reversing flow directions, both horizontal and vertical The
survey efforts in this study are coordinated with the Instream Flow Study establishment of survey
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standards and primary benchmarks (Study 8.5). Monitoring wells were surveyed with a
combination of Real Time Kinematic (RTK) survey methods and optical level-loop methods.
Selected examples of survey control points and level-loop data calculation sheets are shown in
Appendix E. This surveying was conducted after installation of groundwater wells to determine
measurement heights at the top of each well casing and will be done at least two times a year, or
more frequently if well movements are recorded. Survey control points were also established for
surface-water stage measurement locations. Each Focus Area studied during the 2013 study
season had a series of primary horizontal and vertical survey control points established by the
registered land surveyor for the Project. These were then used to establish a series of secondary
control points at each station to allow subsequent level-loop surveying for verification of
measurement location elevations and surveying of nearby water levels in side channels, sloughs,
and streams.
Pressure transducer measurements were verified with manual measurements when visited during
summer months, and will be measured three to four times during winter periods. Both calibration
(for determining offsets) and verification water level data will be collected. Calibration checks
were performed on conductivity and temperature sensors during field installations, and field
calibration checks were performed during summer months. Calibration checks during winter
months will be performed at least once during the mid-winter period when safe access and
weather conditions allow, and before spring break-up and fall freeze-up.
The Groundwater Study will provide a time series of measured and simulated groundwater levels
and will provide summary statistics needed for developing plant-response curves (see Riparian
Instream Flow Study [Study 8.6]). The groundwater and surface-water field measurement
collection interval for continuously measured sensors is 15 minutes or less. Groundwater model
numerical simulations will also be 15 minutes or less, based on analysis of modeling results.
Depending on the analysis objectives, longer time steps may be used if the simulation objectives
require it. This information will produce time series datasets from which water level summary
statistics can be calculated for a range of analysis, such as running averages in hourly and daily
increments.
MODFLOW (Feinstein et al. 2012; Maddock et al. 2012; USGS 2005) GW/SW numerical
models of floodplain water table alluvial aquifer and surface water relationships are being
developed for the Focus Areas using the collected empirical data. Similar approaches to
understanding GW/SW interactions have been reported in Nakanishi and Lilly (1998).
MODFLOW modeling packages are based on ASTM D6170 “Standard Guide for Selecting a
Groundwater Modeling Code” (ASTM 2010b). ASTM standard D5981 is being used to help
develop calibration goals and procedures for groundwater modeling efforts (ASTM 2008c). Both
generic and conceptual models were used to help improve process understanding and design of
data collection field programs, and for developing the framework for numerical models that will
be used in conjunction with empirical data and analysis to better understand and describe
potential Project effects.
The application of snowmelt and precipitation runoff stage-change events is being used to
develop and calibrate groundwater models. Independent hydrologic events will be used to
validate the models. Thus, a year with snowmelt peak and three precipitation peaks may provide
three peaks for model development and calibration and one event to validate the numerical
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model simulation capabilities. Data from the study period will be used to provide information to
meet similar objectives.
Groundwater, surface-water, and meteorological data collection station locations for the FA-138
(Gold Creek) FA are shown in Figure 4.5-2. This Focus Area has one riparian sample transect to
characterize the groundwater interactions in the elevated floodplain wetland areas. An abandoned
set of upland sloughs, one containing old beaver dam complexes, has two surface-water stations.
Because these abandoned sloughs are groundwater-fed, they are named as groundwater sites.
FA-128 (Slough 8A) is the Focus Area with the highest level of Groundwater
Study activity (Figure 4.5-3). There are two riparian transects in the Focus Area. There are also a
series of wells characterizing the floodplain water-table aquifer as well as two co-located aquatic
transects. The two transects extend from side channels that are adjacent to the main channel
toward Slough 8A at the floodplain boundaries along the Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC)
railroad tracks.
FA-115 (Slough 6A) has one riparian transect (Figure 4.5-4). There is one meteorological station
on this transect and seven groundwater stations. Four of the groundwater stations also have
surface-water pressure transducers to characterize off-channel water bodies.
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) has one Riparian Transect located in the central portion of the Focus
Area (Figure 4.5-6). There are seven groundwater stations on this transect and one
meteorological station. There are three surface-water pressure transducers located at various
stations.
The data collection networks in the Focus Areas were designed to benefit the specific objectives
of the aquatic and riparian groundwater studies, as well to help provide information on overall
Focus Area scale hydrology and supporting empirical data for other studies. Over the 2013
summer and fall field installation period, 66 of the 71 planned shallow groundwater wells were
located, drilled, instrumented, and had survey control points established. Four wells not intended
for any instrumentation, and low island areas subject to fall and spring ice jamming, were
scheduled for the next year of study. Only one well, in an area of dense cobbles and boulders,
was not successfully installed (ESGFA104-8). Taking into account all the measurements being
made, this loss will not have a negative impact on study objectives. Continuous monitoring
stations were established in five Focus Areas; 57 stations were installed in 2013, with hundreds
of measurement points covering a range of hydrologic and climate process measurements. Five
additional groundwater stations were installed in the Lower River. A total of 22 of the 62
installed stations were self-logging pressure transducers where only water temperature and level
were required at a single point. The other 35 stations (Campbell Scientific Inc. data acquisition
and control systems) are on the radio telemetry network, providing near-real-time data access to
study teams to these remote stations without needing to retrieve data from the field. Additionally,
31 time-lapse camera stations (or additions to existing stations) were installed in 2013, in
addition to two near-real-time reporting Campbell Scientific Inc. stations at ESSFA104-1 and
ESSFA128-1 (Figure 4.5-6). Tables 4.5-1 through 4.5-6 provide more details for these stations
and the variety of empirical measurements being made on a continuous basis.
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Empirical data station metadata includes data collection standards and methods. Representative
examples of these products are listed in Appendices B through E. Groundwater, surface water,
meteorological, and geotechnical (soil temperature, soil moisture) empirical datasets from the
2013 season are described in the methods section above (Section 4) and data passing quality
assurance methods are available for download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr.
4.5.1. Variances
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of the
variances described below.
The schedule for completion of the groundwater flow models, including model input and
calibration datasets, files, and model documentation was rescheduled into the next year of
the study to provide better integration with other hydrologic modeling efforts. This
change in schedule will not impact the objectives of the study.
4.6. Aquatic Habitat Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of variances
explained below (Section 4.6.1). The same general approach as described above for the riparian
component is being used for evaluating GW/SW interactions within aquatic habitats as part of
the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5). The mainstem flow routing model will
serve to predict water surface elevations under different flow conditions longitudinally
throughout the length of the river below the Watana Dam site (PRM 187.1). The model will thus
be able to predict water surface elevations (WSEs) proximal to the Focus Areas noted above, as
well as in other areas identified as being groundwater-influenced. Empirical water levels and
water quality (temperature, conductivity) measured in side channels, sloughs, and groundwater
wells installed in the floodplain at the Focus Areas can therefore be related to simulated
mainstem WSEs.
Habitat Suitability Criteria (HSC) and a Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) will be developed that
include groundwater-related parameters (upwelling/downwelling indexes). Development of
HSC and HSI will follow the general procedures outlined in the Fish and Aquatics Instream
Flow Study (Study 8.5). Parameters specific to groundwater that are being measured, where
appropriate, include turbidity, evidence of upwelling/downwelling, substrate characteristics, and
water temperature. Other parameters may also be included. These parameters will be
incorporated into the development of HSC type curves that reflect utilization of these parameters
by fish. This work will be closely coordinated with the fish studies (Study 9).
Mainstem, side channel, and slough habitat models will be developed that incorporate GW/SW
related processes (main channel head, upwelling/downwelling) (see Figure 8.5-3 in Study 8.5,
Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study). An integral part of the Fish and Aquatics Instream
Flow Study will be development of habitat-specific models that can be used in evaluating flow
(and WSE) relationships between the mainstem river and other habitat types (including those
influenced by groundwater) under different operational scenarios. These types of models (e.g.,
flow routing) are generally described in more detail in the Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow
Study (Study 8.5).
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The groundwater study coordinated with both instream flow and fisheries studies on the selection
of Focus Areas. The groundwater study is measuring both horizontal and vertical head gradients
through combinations of shallow wells and temperature profile strings installed in surface water
habitat areas to measure the gradients between surface water sources and underlying
groundwater conditions. These gradients will be compared with simulated gradients from
groundwater/surface water models under the field conditions measured during the study data
collection period.
The Focus Areas, continuous data collection stations, and location of aquatic transects are shown
in Figures 4.5-2 through 4.5-6. Figures 4.5-12 through 4.5-24 show the location of key
measurement locations and groundwater well locations. Locations where surface-water stage and
temperature, groundwater levels and temperature, streambed and soil temperature profiles, and
time-lapse images are shown for each Focus Area in the Middle River and each riparian transect
location in the Lower River Segment. Figure 4.6-1 shows a typical installation in floodplain
areas subject to ice jam flooding. To determine how high stations should be mounted to limit the
impacts of flooding, ice-scars were used to determine the general high water levels during ice
jam flooding. The station shown (ESSFA104-1) is about 3 feet above the highest ice-scars in the
area. Figure 4.6-2 shows some additional examples of typical groundwater and surface-water
stations. The data collection stations measure a wide range of sensors (Tables 4.5-1 to 4.5-6).
The data collection networks in the Focus Areas were designed to benefit both the specific
objectives of the aquatic and riparian groundwater studies, as well as to help provide information
on overall Focus Area scale hydrology and supporting empirical data for other studies. Over the
2013 summer and fall field installation period, 66 of the 71 planned shallow groundwater wells
were located, drilled, and instrumented, and had survey control established. Four wells not
intended for any instrumentation, and low island areas subject to fall and spring ice jamming,
were scheduled for the next year of study. Only one well, in an area of dense cobbles and
boulders, was not successfully installed (ESGFA104-8). Taking into account all the
measurements being made, this loss will not have a negative impact on study objectives.
Continuous monitoring stations were established in five Focus Areas. In 2013, 57 stations were
installed, with hundreds of measurement points covering a range of hydrologic and climate
process measurements. Five additional groundwater stations were installed in the Lower River. A
total of 22 of the 62 installed stations were self-logging pressure transducers where only water
temperature and level were required at a single point. The other 35 stations (Campbell Scientific
Inc. data acquisition and control systems) are on the radio telemetry network, providing near-
real-time data access to study teams to these remote stations without needing to retrieve data
from the field. Additionally, 31 time-lapse camera stations (or additions to existing stations)
were installed in 2013, in addition to two near-real-time reporting Campbell Scientific Inc.
stations at ESSFA104-1 (Figure 4.5-18) and ESSFA128-1 (Figure 4.5-14). Tables 4.5-1 through
4.5-6 provide more details for these stations and the variety of empirical measurements being
made on a continuous basis.
Empirical data station metadata includes data collection standards and methods. These work
products from the 2013 season are described above in the riparian methods section (Section 4.5),
and groundwater, surface water, meteorological geotechnical (soil temperature, moisture)
empirical datasets passing quality assurance methods are available for download at
http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. Representative examples of metadata standards and supporting
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documentation are also listed in Appendices B through E. The Groundwater Study is responsible
for the coordination and collection of information, analysis, and reporting of final deliverables
for this study element.
4.6.1. Variances
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of the
variances described below.
The schedule for completion of the groundwater flow models, including model input and
calibration datasets, files, and model documentation was rescheduled into the next year of
the study to provide better integration with other hydrologic modeling and habitat
modeling efforts. This change in schedule will not impact the objectives of the study.
4.7. Water Quality in Selected Habitats
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of variances
explained below (Section 4.7.1). Water quality characteristics are likely to vary with GW/SW
interactions and potential effects due to proposed Project operations. Project water quality
activities were coordinated with the Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6), Geomorphology
studies (Studies 6.5 and 6.6), and Fish and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5). Data
collection under this objective will also be accomplished by the Baseline Water Quality Study
(Study 5.5). The following methods will be used in coordination with the indicated studies to
understand water quality characteristics and the variation between groundwater and surface
water. This will help evaluate the potential changes in water quality related to GW/SW
interactions and potential impacts related to proposed Project operations.
At selected instream flow, fish population, and riparian study sites, basic water chemistry
(temperature, dissolved oxygen [DO], conductivity, pH, turbidity, redox potential) data were
collected by the Water Quality Study (Study 5.5) in 2013 that define habitat conditions and
characterize GW/SW interactions. This included data collection at selected wells, sloughs, and
side channels. For example, where possible, differences between regional groundwater
conditions, groundwater in the mixing zone at the GW/SW interface (slough or river bed), and
surface water sources (sloughs and side channels) will be characterized. This data collection will
continue in the second year of study.
To improve the understanding of the water quality differences and related GW/SW processes,
water quality differences will be characterized between a set of key productive aquatic habitat
types (three to five sites) and a set of non-productive habitat types (three to five sites) that are
related to the absence or presence of groundwater upwelling. For example, results from fish
population and habitat studies (Studies 9.6 and 9.9) will be used and coordinated with the Fish
and Aquatics Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5) to select paired productive and non-productive
habitats.
Empirical data station metadata includes data collection standards and methods. These work
products from the 2013 season are described in the riparian methods section above (Section 4.5),
and groundwater, surface water, meteorological, geotechnical (soil temperature, soil moisture)
empirical datasets from the 2013 season passing quality assurance methods are available for
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download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. Representative examples of metadata standards
and supporting information are also listed in Appendices B through E.
4.7.1. Variances
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with the exception of the
variances described below.
The schedule for completion of the groundwater flow models, including model input and
calibration datasets, files, and model documentation was rescheduled into the next year of
the study to provide better integration with other hydrologic modeling and habitat
modeling efforts.
Water quality data from other studies completed in the first study year will be used in the
next year of study to describe the differences between productive and non-productive
habitat types. These habitat types will be defined in the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5).
This change in schedule will not impact the objectives of the study.
4.8. Winter Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with no variances. Winter
GW/SW interactions are critical to aquatic habitat functions. Proposed Project operations will
have an impact on the winter flow conditions of the mainstem and side channels and sloughs.
The collection of hydrologic conditions (i.e., water levels, discharge, ice conditions) is critical to
understanding current winter flow conditions and evaluating the potential impacts of Project
operations.
Water levels/pressures are being measured at the continuous gaging stations on the Susitna River
during winter flow periods. Continuous gaging stations will be measuring water levels and
temperature as part of the instream flow studies. Water levels measured during full ice cover are
generally referred to as water pressure and represent the hydrostatic head of the river. The
Project is expected to increase average monthly flows in the Susitna River during the winter
months, and this may have an impact on GW/SW interactions during that season.
Winter discharge measurements will help identify key sections of the mainstem with
groundwater baseflow recharge to the river (upwelling). Winter discharge is being measured as
part of the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5) and in coordination with U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) winter measurement efforts at USGS gaging stations to identify winter gaining and
losing reaches. These field activities will be closely coordinated with the Ice Processes Study
(Study 7.6).
Hydrologic stations installed for the aquatic and riparian study elements were designed to
operate year-round, both summer and winter. The interpretation of winter hydrology and
GW/SW interactions is covered under this study section. Data collection includes groundwater
levels, surface-water levels, water temperature, meteorological parameters, and other
measurements that will contribute to the winter studies taking place in the Focus Areas. Ice and
snow cover on side channels and sloughs is important to characterize for winter hydrology
programs. A series of time-lapse cameras was installed in the five Focus Areas that are part of
the aquatic and riparian study activities. These cameras were installed in coordination with the
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Ice Processes Study (Study 7.6) and Instream Flow Study. The installed time-lapse cameras were
concentrated in aquatic lateral habitat areas and connecting locations to side and main channel
areas. The cameras were installed in the fall and early winter of 2013 in time to help capture
vegetation “leaf-off”, early snowfall, and the early winter freeze-up of side sloughs and channels.
The time-lapse interval for the cameras will vary over the year. The cameras will be set to 15-
minute intervals for the river freeze-up and break-up periods. During the rest of the year, the
cameras will be set to an hourly image collection interval. The camera sites are visited at various
times when other work is being carried out in the respective Focus Areas. Selected representative
images from time-lapse cameras are shown in Appendix D.
Empirical data station metadata includes data collection standards and methods. These work
products from the 2013 season are described in the methods section above (Section 4), and data
passing quality assurance methods are available for download at
http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. Representative examples of these products are also listed in
Appendix B through E.
4.8.1. Variances
No variances from the methods described in the Study Plan occurred during the 2013 study
season.
4.9. Shallow Groundwater Users
AEA implemented the methods as described in the Study Plan with no variances. There are a
number of groundwater wells located in the Susitna River floodplain that have demonstrated the
interconnections between groundwater and surface water. The influence of proposed Project
operations could change water levels and water quality in water supply wells. A majority of the
wells are expected to be private homeowner wells. In 2013, three wells were selected for
monitoring in the Gold Creek area and one well in the Chase community area. Because these
areas are closer to the upstream location of the proposed dam, the potential impacts would be
expected to be greater. In the initial phases of the study, four wells were instrumented with self-
logging pressure transducers that measure water level and temperature. Data will be downloaded
during winter and summer trips to the Focus Areas for general data collection activities. At this
time, basic water quality parameters will be measured, including temperature, conductivity, and
dissolved oxygen (when sampling conditions allow). The methods listed below will be used to
evaluate the potential impacts of the Project on water supply wells in the area under potential
impact by the Project:
• The Alaska Department of Natural Resources Well Log Tracking System (WELTS) and
the USGS Groundwater Site Inventory (GWSI) Database are being used to map domestic
and other water supply wells along the Susitna River downstream of the proposed
Watana Reservoir.
• At a reconnaissance level, wells will be stratified by potential to be affected by the
Susitna River flow regime (high, medium, and low) using factors such as depth and
proximity to the Susitna River. A small number of representative wells were selected
with high potential to be affected by the Susitna River flow regime and well levels and
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river stage are being monitored. River stage information will come from correlations
with the gaging stations measuring water levels that are part of the instream flow studies.
• Based on the results from the well monitoring and an analysis of potential Project
operations flow data, the potential effects of the Project will be determined on shallow
groundwater wells and it will be determined if additional monitoring of wells may be
appropriate. ASTM method D6030 will be used to help address groundwater
vulnerability (ASTM 2008a).
• The data from this study element will also be used for the other study elements, where
appropriate, to help extend the application of the data and analysis regarding shallow
groundwater well users to other Groundwater Study objectives.
Empirical data station metadata includes data collection standards and methods. These work
products from the 2013 season are described above in the methods section (Section 4), and data
passing quality assurance methods are available for download at
http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. Representative examples of these products are also listed in
Appendix B through E. The Groundwater Study is responsible for the coordination and
collection of information, analysis, and reporting of final deliverables for this study element.
4.9.1. Variances
No variances from the methods described in the Study Plan occurred during the 2013 study
season.
5. RESULTS
5.1. Existing Data Synthesis
Data synthesis efforts in 2013, in coordination with the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5),
resulted in finding significant additional 1980s Susitna references and other forms of
information. The 1970s infrared aerial images of select areas in the Susitna River, mainly in the
Middle River Segment, were located at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (Appendix A). Figure
5.1-1 shows an example of one of the early geohydrology study maps from the 1980s in the
Slough 8A area. This figure shows the location of groundwater wells installed with similar drive-
point methods. Some of these wells have been found and will be used by the study. The
annotated bibliography, located at the ARLIS Library Susitna Collection, will be completed in
the second year of the study.
5.2. Geohydrologic Process-Domains
Study activities in 2013 were concentrated on acquisition and review of materials related to this
study element.
In addition, while traveling in helicopters for support of other data collection activities, oblique
aerial photographs were taken to help characterize the important geographic and hydrologic
features that will relate to the development of the process-domain maps. Figure 5.2-1 illustrates
an example observation for the recharge areas for Slough 21, found in FA-144 (Slough 21).
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AEA is in the process of reviewing this material and expects that the results for this study
component to be completed in the second year of the study.
5.3. Watana Dam/Reservoir
To inform the assessment of potential aquatic and riparian habitat effects from predicted
fluctuating reservoir pool elevations at the upper end of the dam reservoir, a fall 2013
reconnaissance field trip was conducted. The reconnaissance survey focused on documenting
upper reservoir channel lateral margin aquatic and riparian habitat conditions to provide data for
evaluating potential reservoir pool fluctuation effects on GW/SW and ice processes, and
associated aquatic and riparian habitats.
The modeled low pool to high pool elevation zone was photographically documented from both
on-the-ground and helicopter aerial vantage points. Figures 5.3-1 and 5.3-2 show the left bank
conditions at the location of the proposed high-pool elevation (elevation 2,050 feet NAVD88).
One hundred and thirty six aerial photographs from helicopter- and ground-based vantage points
were collected and are available for download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. These
photographs were taken using a GPS-equipped camera and have GPS coordinates embedded in
the image information. The photographs document general floodplain and river conditions from
the low pool elevation (1,850 feet NAVD88) (PRM 222.5) to about 2 miles upstream of the high
pool elevation (PRM 232.5).
5.4. Upwelling / Springs Broad-Scale Mapping
The Groundwater Study provided water surface temperature measurements to the Thermal
Infrared (TIR) Imagery processing staff to assist in the calibration and validation of the TIR
imagery surveys. TIR surveys were conducted to identify areas of measurable groundwater
upwelling in mainstem and lateral channel habitats using TIR surface water temperature maps to
rapidly cover large areas. Water temperature signature differences may be used as a tracer to
identify the source of warm or cold water because flowing surface water and groundwater have
distinctive temperature profiles. Synchronous water temperature measurements from Focus Area
and mainstem stations, in or near the areas of TIR coverage, were compared with synchronous
TIR imagery measurements taken by fixed-wing aircraft. Figures 5.4-1 and 5.4-2 provide two
examples of data provided to assist in the TIR imagery analysis. The TIR analysis will be used in
the next year of the study to provide a better understanding of areas where in-channel
groundwater upwelling is occurring. Water temperature data that were used for the TIR analysis
are available for download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr. Water temperature data collected
for Aquatic IFS and Water Quality Studies, described in Sections 5.6 through 5.7, will also be
used to calibrate and validate TIR aerial imagery.
5.5. Riparian Vegetation Dependency on Groundwater / Surface
Water Interactions
Four sets of data were collected in support of Riparian IFS riparian vegetation GW/SW
hydroregime analysis (Section 5.6): (1) groundwater depth at wells, (2) surface water elevations
at both in-channel and floodplain water bodies, (3) meteorological parameters at Focus Area met
stations, and (4) geotechnical parameters including soil temperature and soil moisture. These
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data were collected at FAs 104, 115, 128, and 138. The following results provide examples of
how Groundwater Study data are used to identify and quantify linkages between key GW/SW
processes and riparian vegetation, specifically vegetation root zone.
Multiple hydrologic events occurred in early fall and winter that are providing an improved
understanding of GW/SW interactions. Figure 5.5-1 illustrates groundwater and surface-water
level changes at groundwater station ESGFA115-5, located on the Riparian Transect in FA-115
(Slough 6A) (Figure 4.5-16). The December rise in water levels was due to early winter ice
jamming on the mainstem of the Susitna River (Figure 5.5-1). The water levels in the beaver
pond do not respond to the early water level changes in the mainstem due to the beaver pond
dam outlet control on maximum water surface elevations. Figure 5.5-2 shows water temperature
data for the same station. The beaver pond, warming in the summer, shows decreasing water
temperatures with the onset of winter. The groundwater temperature is lagging behind the
surface-water temperature in the beaver pond. By the end of December, they have reached the
same temperature and rate of decline. These paired groundwater and surface-water observations
provide empirical information critical to both analysis and modeling of riparian vegetation
associated with floodplain beaver ponds and associated wet meadows.
Data collected in 2013 met the goals of recording transient water level changes within
groundwater and adjacent surface-water systems. Figure 5.5-3 is an example illustrating the
relationship between precipitation, ice jamming, and groundwater elevation response for
groundwater station ESGFA104-8. The groundwater levels have several distinct water level
peaks. The first two are related to late fall precipitation events, and the large peak in the second
half of November is related to the early winter ice jamming on the mainstem Susitna River. The
surface-water sensor was damaged during the early winter ice jamming in the channel. The
difference in water levels between the surface water in Whiskers Side Channel and the nearby
groundwater well demonstrates the kinematic pressure pulse moving up the hydraulic grade line.
The Riparian Transect in FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) has a groundwater station (ESGFA104-3) at
the upper portion of the transect (Figure 4.5-6). This location will help serve as an input
boundary condition for water level conditions away from the main channel. An example of water
level changes in response to precipitation, main channel stage, and ice jamming backwater stage
is shown in Figure 5.5-4. The water level information shows the relative difference in
groundwater conditions and response to the water level changes in the mainstem for the same
time period as data shown for ESGA104-8 in Figure 5.5-2. The groundwater level response to
local precipitation is more pronounced for ESGFA104-3 than for ESGFAFA104-8. The reverse
relationship is seen in the late November peak, which resulted from stage increases on the
mainstem associated with early winter ice jams.
The relationship between riparian vegetation and shallow groundwater is influenced by other
sources of water, primarily precipitation and resulting infiltration of water through the root zone.
Losses of water via evapotranspiration are important to quantify with empirical data and
analysis. Figures 5.5-5 through 5.5-7 illustrate examples of data being used to quantify moisture
dynamics in the root zone. Figure 5.5-5 shows an example temperature profile from FA-104
(Whiskers Slough) Riparian Transect at meteorological station ESMFA104-2. The temperature
data help in understanding the depth and duration of the active-layer (i.e., seasonal depth of soil
freezing) and unfrozen periods when water may be infiltrating through the soils. Figure 5.5-6
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shows the volumetric unfrozen soil moisture at different depths. Soil moisture changes in the
upper portion of the soil column indicate that the riparian root zone has pulses of soil moisture
increases associated with local-area precipitation events. Figure 5.5-7 shows an example of data
from the same station for solar radiation, which is used to estimate evapotranspiration water
losses at the land surface to the atmosphere. These results illustrate that solar radiation is varying
with cloud cover and decreasing light during the fall and winter seasons.
These examples illustrate how hydrologic data collection in 2013 will be used to help understand
floodplain groundwater response to Susitna mainstem stage levels. The wide range of data being
collected is meeting data quality objectives and helping study teams better understand the field
hydrologic conditions. Data developed in support of the ISR are available for download at
http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr.
5.6. Aquatic Habitat Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions
There is a wide range of data being collected that supports the assessment of aquatic habitats and
associated critical GW/SW processes. All of the data collection stations planned for installation
in 2013 were installed, as well as all the groundwater wells. Data collection is ongoing at all
stations. Some sites will need to be visited during winter and following months to download data
from data collection stations not on telemetry. Data collection focused on understanding the
relationship between aquatic habitat and surface-water is concentrated in the Focus Areas at
short aquatic transects. Data collection in support of Riparian Study (Section 8.6) objectives will
also be used in the analysis of GW/SW conditions and general hydrology of the lateral habitat
areas in each Focus Area.
Four sets of data were collected in support of Aquatic IFS aquatic habitat GW/SW interaction
analysis (Section 5.5): (1) groundwater depth at wells, (2) surface water elevations at both in-
channel and floodplain water bodies, (3) meteorological parameters at Focus Area met stations,
and (4) water quality parameters including surface and subsurface temperatures. These data were
collected at FAs 104, 113, 115, 128, and 138. The following results provide examples of how
Groundwater Study data are used to identify and quantify linkages between key GW/SW
processes and aquatic habitat.
Groundwater and surface water interaction linkages were identified and measured using
combinations of groundwater wells and surface water recorders. Figure 5.6-1 shows an example
of data collection in FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) at groundwater station ESGFA104-10, located
on the Whiskers Side Channel aquatic transect. Relative water levels between the side channel
and adjacent groundwater conditions are seen to reverse during rapid stage changes in the side
channel during late November and early December and illustrate the effect of an early winter ice
jamming event on GW/SW interactions. Initially, groundwater levels are higher than surface-
water levels and groundwater flow is into the channel. Surface-water levels in the side channel
rapidly came up approximately 10 feet due to ice jamming, resulting in surface-water levels
higher than groundwater and reversing groundwater flow directions. As high water levels created
by the ice jam receded, groundwater levels recovered to near pre-jam conditions by the end of
December.
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Another example of data collection to support aquatic analysis is illustrated in Figure 5.6-2 for
FA-113 (Oxbow 1) (Figure 4.5-5). This aquatic transect has a single station, ESGFA113-1,
collecting data from two wells, an unnamed stream, and the Oxbow 1 side channel (Figure 4.5-
17). The figure illustrates variations in groundwater and surface-water conditions from August
through December 2013. The peaks in August and September are the result of mainstem Susitna
River stage increases in response to precipitation. In comparison, groundwater levels are higher
in the abandoned slough and beaver pond complex that drains into the stream. This is shown in
the higher water levels in Well W1. These data illustrate how groundwater and surface water
recorders are used to identify and measure GW/SW linkages and interactions. Data developed in
support of the ISR is available for download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr.
5.7. Water Quality in Selected Habitats
Three sets of data were collected in support of the water quality analyses of lateral channel
habitats for Aquatic IFS (Section 5.5): (1) water temperature, (2) electrical conductivity, (3)
dissolved oxygen, and (4) time lapse photographs of in-channel turbidity. Water temperature was
measured at all water level, groundwater, and streambed profiles. Electrical conductivity was
measured at select aquatic GW/SW transects. Dissolved oxygen was measured manually at select
sites during stream surveys. Time lapse cameras of in-channel processes are operating at all
Focus Areas. These data were collected at FAs 104, 113, 115, 128, and 138. The following
results provide examples of how Groundwater Study data are used to measure Aquatic IFS water
quality parameters.
One of the primary water quality parameters being measured in support of aquatic habitat
assessments is water temperature. One example of groundwater and surface water temperature
measurements is illustrated in Figure 5.7-1 for FA-113 (Oxbow 1) groundwater station
ESGFA113-1 (Figure 4.5-5, Figure 4.5-12, Figure 4.5-13). Temperature variations in two wells,
an unnamed stream, and the side channel are shown. Seasonal variation between summer
conditions (warmer surface water) and winter conditions (colder surface water) are illustrated at
this aquatic study location. For comparison, streambed temperature conditions in the Oxbow 1
side channel are shown in Figure 5.7-2. There is a change from summer to winter conditions as
the profile gets cooler; however, streambed temperatures are still above the temperatures at the
streambed interface (measured at the pressure transducer, Figure 5.7-1).
The conditions in Slough 11(FA-138 [Gold Creek]) groundwater station ESGFA138-1 (Figure
5.7-3) are different than in the Oxbow 1 side channel, illustrating temporal influence of
groundwater and mainstem channel hydrologic connectivity on slough water temperatures.
Figure 5.7-3 shows the temperature variation for Slough 11 and the two adjacent wells on the
right bank. Groundwater flow into Slough 11 keeps the surface-water temperature relatively
high. This temporarily changed in mid-December when mainstem stage conditions changed with
ice jamming, resulting in cold mainstem water overtopping the inlet to Slough 11 and flushing
out the warmer water in the slough. As water levels in the mainstem dropped and the flow ceased
to overtop the inlet, water temperature conditions returned to levels closer to early December
levels.
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Surface water temperature and streambed temperature conditions are important for spawning,
egg incubation, and rearing habitat conditions and their measurement is illustrated in Figure 5.7-
4, ESGFA138-1. This figure shows stable temperature environment in the streambed before the
overtopping flows increased water stage level and lowered temperatures. This resulted in a
reversal of groundwater flow directions and an influx of cold water into the streambed sediments
(downwelling). The presence of groundwater inflow into and out of the streambed (upwelling)
results in warmer streambed substrate conditions than if groundwater recharge was not
occurring.
Data collected for this study can help in understanding groundwater and surface-water
interactions, and water temperature can be used as an indicator of relative groundwater and
surface-water influences. Figure 5.7-5 shows the streambed temperature profile for FA-138
(Gold Creek) Upper Side Channel 11, measured from groundwater station ESGFA138-2. Figure
5.7-6 then shows the same data combined with the stage elevation for the side channel. The rapid
increase in surface-water level in the side channel resulted in a reversal of groundwater flow
direction. This temporary “downwelling” resulted in displacement of warmer groundwater in the
streambed with cold surface water. By early January, the streambed conditions returned to those
prior to the ice jam event.
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) has three streambed temperature monitoring sites. These are
locations at groundwater stations ESGFA104-9 and ESGFA104-10, and surface-water station
ESSFA104-1 (Figures 4.5-6 and 4.5-18). ESGFA104-9 and ESSFA104-1 are located in
Whiskers Slough while ESGFA104-10 has two wells and is located at the upstream end of
Whiskers Side Channel (Figures 4.5-18 and 4.5-19). Figures 5.7-7 through 5.7-10 show the
streambed temperature profiles for these measurement locations. The groundwater temperature
influences are different in the side channel (Figures 5.7-9 and 5.7-10) compared to Whiskers
Slough (Figures 5.7-7 and 5.7-8). The lower end of Whiskers Slough has colder streambed
temperature conditions compared to the middle section of the slough. The Whiskers Side
Channel has more stable and warmer streambed conditions just before the transient exchanges
that took place in November between groundwater and surface water due to mainstem ice
jamming.
The use of time-lapse cameras also provides useful data for understanding water quality
differences and exchanges between summer turbid waters from the mainstem and clear
groundwater-recharged lateral aquatic lateral habitats. Figures 5.7-11 and 5.7-12 are example
images at the confluence of Slough 8A and a side channel on September 1 and August 31, 2013.
The significant amount of hydrologic data being provided by the field monitoring program will
help achieve the study objective for assessing current aquatic water quality conditions. Data
developed in support of the ISR are available for download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr.
5.8. Winter Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions
Five sets of data were collected in support of Aquatic IFS winter GW/SW interactions analyses
(Section 5.5): (1) groundwater depth at wells, (2) surface water elevations at both in-channel and
floodplain water bodies, (3) meteorological parameters at Focus Area met stations, (4) water
quality parameters including surface and subsurface temperatures, and (5) time lapse
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photographs of in-channel ice and open lead conditions. These data were collected at FAs 104,
113, 115, 128, and 138. The following results provide examples of how Groundwater Study data
are used to identify and quantify linkages between key GW/SW processes and aquatic habitat.
Groundwater has an influence on ice processes in lateral habitats and in the mainstem. Winter ice
cover also impacts GW/SW interactions by providing transient boundary conditions; data
collected demonstrate the complex nature of ice jams and the impact they have on stage levels.
Example data shown in Sections 5.5 and 5.7 describe related processes taking place during the
winter season (longer than the summer season). Data and observations were collected at the end
of the 2012–2013 winter season, and at the beginning of the 2013–2014 winter season. Figure
5.8-10 shows example conditions in Whiskers Slough at camera station ESCFA104-22 on
November 21, 2013 at 15:15. Ice jams on the mainstem changed the slough conditions during the
night. Figure 5.8-11 represents conditions on the next day, at 11:00 in the morning. Figure 5.8-12
shows conditions on November 23, 2013 at 13:15 in the afternoon. The time series of photos
documents increasing water levels, and the build-up of ice cover indicates water flooding on top
of ice from the main stem and subsequent freezing. These images and others were used for this
period to help understand and quality-check groundwater and surface water level measurements
made in the Focus Area. The Groundwater Study uses these collective synoptic observations and
measurements to identify and quantitatively describe the relationship between groundwater
upwelling, in-channel ice formation, and formation of winter channel open leads. Identification
and mapping of Focus Area in-channel upwelling sites, a critical element of winter aquatic
habitat studies, are significant aspects of the winter Groundwater Study. Time lapse
photography provides photographic data documenting in-channel ice conditions driving water
level changes as observed in groundwater wells and surface water recorders. Without in-channel
time lapse photography, these in-channel ice-driven changes in river stage, and subsequent
GW/SW levels, would be unobserved. Therefore, the time lapse photography data are essential to
identifying ice process effects on groundwater and surface water.
Winter groundwater-surface water interactions study to-date has documented the relationship
between groundwater upwelling, groundwater and surface water temperature, and the formation
of channel and slough winter open leads at FAs 104, 113, 115, 128, and 138. Data developed in
support of the ISR are available for download at http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr.
5.9. Shallow Groundwater Users
Four homeowner wells were instrumented with continuously recording pressure transducers in
2013. Three homeowner wells were located in the FA-138 (Gold Creek) Focus Area, and one in
the FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) Focus Area. The data from these wells will be collected during
the winter study efforts. Figure 5.9-1 shows a typical installation of pressure transducers in a
homeowner well (Station ESGFA138-HW1) in FA-138 (Gold Creek). The use of the data across
study objectives will benefit the analysis related to Focus Area aquatic and riparian assessments,
as well as in understanding the groundwater relationships with the river for shallow groundwater
users. Data developed in support of the ISR are available for download at
http://gis.suhydro.org/reports/isr.
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6. DISCUSSION
The 2013 field station installation and data collection efforts are meeting the objectives of the
first year of study. The continuous data collection stations are providing data for a number
Groundwater Study objectives and also supporting the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5),
Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6), and other studies requiring empirical hydrology
measurements and observations in select Focus Areas and lower river transect locations.
6.1. Existing Data Synthesis
The study efforts in 2013 are meeting the needs of the study objectives, in coordination with the
ARLIS library staff managing Susitna reference resources. Important aerial photography
information from the 1970s was located at University of Alaska Fairbanks, Geophysical Institute
mapping archives. The data synthesis portion of the study is helping to provide key references,
especially those from geohydrology studies conducted in the 1980s. Important aerial
photography information from the 1970s was located at University of Alaska Fairbanks,
Geophysical Institute mapping archives. The geohydrology mass balance studies conducted in
the 1980s in Slough 8A, Slough 9, and Slough 11 helped with the design of the 2013 field effort,
approach to well installations, and in the data collection design so that the prior information and
studies will be able to be better utilized in the next year of the study. The relevant reference
reviews that will be completed in the second year of the Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study
8.6) will be incorporated into the Groundwater Study literature review.
6.2. Geohydrologic Process-Domains
The level of effort in 2013 was adequate for meeting the study objectives during the next year of
the study. The general fieldwork, observations, and information gained during 2013 will help
improve the development of process-domains. Information developed at the end of 2013 and in
next year study efforts by the Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study 9.8) and the Geomorphology
Study (Study 6.5) will also be used and will contribute to this study objective.
6.3. Watana Dam/Reservoir
Reference information collected in 2013, and that planned for collection in the second year of the
study, will meet the study objectives. The field survey in late fall 2013 for the upstream end of
the upper pool elevation provides photographic documentation necessary to characterize this
portion of the field area. The study analysis objectives will rely on the use of engineering
program data and information produced in the next year of the study. The 1980s data and
references located in 2013 and in the second year of the study will help characterize the
geohydrology in the vicinity of the proposed dam. These efforts are meeting study objectives set
forth in the FERC-approved Study Plan.
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6.4. Upwelling / Springs Broad-Scale Mapping
The field data collection by the Ice Processes study (Study 7.6) and the Water Quality Study
(Study 5.5) will be used to help meet the objectives of mapping upwelling areas. Information
collected for the 2013–2014 winter period will be available in the second year of the study. TIR
imagery was flown in late fall 2013 and included areas in the lower river and select Focus Areas.
The synthesis of 2012 TIR imagery, 2013 TIR imagery, mapping of open water leads from the
Ice Processes Study, and hydrology information collected in Focus Areas by the Groundwater
study will meet the study objectives. These efforts are meeting study objectives set forth in the
FERC-approved Study Plan.
6.5. Riparian Vegetation Dependency on Groundwater / Surface-
Water Interactions
All of the major objectives of the 2013 field effort were achieved. Data collection stations and
wells were installed in five Focus Areas—FA-138 (Gold Creek), FA-128 (Slough 8A), FA-115
(Slough 6A), FA-113 (Oxbow 1), and FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) (Tables 4.5-1 through 4.5-6)—
and at four transect locations in the lower river to support the Riparian Instream Flow Study
(Study 8.6). The data collection stations are currently reporting data online over the Project data
collection network, using a radio telemetry system. These data include groundwater and surface-
water levels, meteorological (air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, wind direction,
solar radiation, net radiation, precipitation, soil surface heat flux, soil temperature), and
geotechnical (soil temperature and moisture) information. There is ongoing access to the data by
the Groundwater Study and Riparian Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6) teams. The Riparian
Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6) jointly participated in the installation of sap flow and
geotechnical sensors during 2013 and collected additional measurements related to root zone
characteristics and sap flow in trees that will be used in combination with the data collected by
this study to meet the study objectives in the second year of the study. The combination of
hydrology, meteorology, and observations data will provide an adequate basis for the
development of groundwater/surface numerical 2-D cross-sectional models (MODFLOW) and a
3-D numerical model (MODFLOW) in FA-128 (Slough 8A). These efforts are meeting study
objectives set forth in the FERC-approved Study Plan.
6.6. Aquatic Habitat Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions
Data collection for the aquatic habitat and riparian habitat objectives will be used in combination
to better understand the GW/SW interactions and overall hydrology in the Focus Areas being
studied. Data collection stations and wells were installed in five Focus Areas—FA-138 (Gold
Creek), FA-128 (Slough 8A), FA-115 (Slough 6A), FA-113 (Oxbow 1), and FA-104 (Whiskers
Slough) (Tables 4.5-1 through 4.5-6)—and at four transect locations in the lower river to support
the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5). The data collection stations are currently reporting data
online over the Project data collection network, using a radio telemetry system. These data
include groundwater and surface-water levels, meteorological (air temperature, relative humidity,
wind speed, wind direction, solar radiation, net radiation, precipitation, soil surface heat flux, soil
temperature), and water quality (water temperature and conductivity) information. There is
ongoing access to the data by the Groundwater Study and Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5)
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FERC Project No. 14241 Page 27 February 2014 Draft
teams. The combination of hydrology, meteorology, and observations data will provide an
adequate basis for the development of groundwater/surface numerical 2-D cross-sectional
models (MODFLOW). The 1980s information in the selected Focus Areas will be used in the
study analysis and will help improve the understanding gained in 2013 and the second year of the
study. These efforts are meeting study objectives set forth in the FERC-approved Study Plan.
6.7. Water Quality in Selected Habitats
The water quality data collected in 2013 included temperature, conductivity, and dissolved
oxygen. The Water Quality Study (Study 5.5) also collected data in the Focus Areas, in
coordination with the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6). Data collection stations and wells were
installed in five Focus Areas—FA-138 (Gold Creek), FA-128 (Slough 8A), FA-115 (Slough
6A), FA-113 (Oxbow 1), and FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) (Tables 4.5-1 through 4.5-6)—to
support the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5). All water level pressure transducers measure water
temperature, which is the priority for water quality characterization and understanding GW/SW
interactions. At each aquatic transect in the Focus Areas, conductivity is also being measured in
wells and surface water bodies. The data collection stations are currently reporting data online
over the Project data collection network, using a radio telemetry system. These data include
groundwater and surface-water levels, meteorological (air temperature, relative humidity, wind
speed, wind direction, solar radiation, net radiation, precipitation, soil surface heat flux, soil
temperature), and water quality (water temperature and conductivity) information. There is
ongoing access to the data by the Groundwater Study and Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5)
teams. The study efforts and data collection networks set up in 2013 will meet the study
objectives of characterizing the water quality of aquatic lateral habitats. These efforts are
meeting study objectives set forth in the FERC-approved Study Plan.
6.8. Winter Groundwater / Surface-Water Interactions
The hydrologic data collected in 2013 during the 2012–2013 winter season and the early part of
the 2013–2014 winter season included groundwater and surface-water levels and temperature.
The Ice Processes (Study 7.6) also collected aerial data in the Focus Areas, in coordination with
the Groundwater Study and the Instream Flow Study (Study 8.6). Data collection stations and
wells were installed in five Focus Areas: FA-138 (Gold Creek), FA-128 (Slough 8A), FA-115
(Slough 6A), FA-113 (Oxbow 1), and FA-104 (Whiskers Slough) (Tables 4.5-1 through 4.5-6).
All water level pressure transducers measure water temperature, which is the priority for water
quality characterization and understanding winter GW/SW interactions. The stations were
installed to operate throughout the winter of 2013–2014, providing key datasets for
understanding winter hydrology and assessing lateral aquatic habitat. The data collection stations
are currently reporting data online over the Project data collection network, using a radio
telemetry system. These data include groundwater and surface-water levels, meteorological, and
water quality (water temperature and conductivity) information. There is ongoing access to the
data by the Groundwater Study and Instream Flow Study (Study 8.5) and Ice Processes Study
(Study 7.6) teams. The study efforts and data collection networks set up in 2013 will meet the
study objectives of characterizing the winter GW/SW interactions and winter hydrology of
aquatic lateral habitats. These efforts are meeting study objectives set forth in the FERC-
approved Study Plan.
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FERC Project No. 14241 Page 28 February 2014 Draft
6.9. Shallow Groundwater Users
Four homeowner wells had self-logging pressure transducers installed in 2013. Groundwater
observation wells in the lower river will also help with the analysis for this study objective. The
homeowner wells chosen in 2013 were chosen for their locations in FA-138 (Gold Creek) and
FA-104 (Whiskers Slough). Their data will help in achieving the Focus Area study objectives,
and the additional data collected in the Focus Areas will complement the homeowner shallow
groundwater well analysis objectives. The data from both efforts are being collected in a
coordinated fashion with similar data standards. By selecting wells in the middle river, where
potential Project effects may be greater, the analysis will be more applicable to those
homeowners who will be most affected. These efforts are meeting study objectives set forth in
the FERC-approved Study Plan.
7. COMPLETING THE STUDY
[As explained in the cover letter to this draft ISR, AEA’s plan for completing this study will be
included in the final ISR filed with FERC on June 3, 2014.]
8. LITERATURE CITED
AEA (Alaska Energy Authority). 2012. Revised Study Plan: Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric
Project FERC Project No. 14241. December 2012. Prepared for the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission by the Alaska Energy Authority, Anchorage, Alaska.
http://www.susitna-watanahydro.org/study-plan.
Anderson, G.S. 1970. Hydrologic reconnaissance of the Tanana Basin, central Alaska, 4 sheets,
scale 1:1,000,000.
Anderson, M.P. and W.W. Woessner. 1992. Applied Groundwater Modeling: Simulation of
flow and advective transport. Academic Press, 372 pp.
ASTM. 2008a. D6030 - 96(2008) Standard Guide for Selection of Methods for Assessing
Groundwater or Aquifer Sensitivity and Vulnerability, ASTM, 9 pp.
ASTM. 2008b. D5979 - 96(2008) Standard Guide for Conceptualization and Characterization of
Groundwater Systems ASTM, 19 pp.
ASTM. 2008c. D5981 - 96(2008) Standard Guide for Calibrating a Groundwater Flow Model
Application, ASTM, 19 pp.
ASTM. 2010a. D6106 - 97(2010) Standard Guide for Establishing Nomenclature of
Groundwater Aquifers, ASTM, 17 pp.
ASTM. 2010b. D6170 - 97(2010) Standard Guide for Selecting a Groundwater Modeling Code,
ASTM, 19 pp.
Beikman, H.M. 1994. Geologic map of Alaska. In Plafker, George, and Berg, H.C., The
Geology of Alaska: Geological Society of America, 1 sheet, scale 1:2,500,000.
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
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FERC Project No. 14241 Page 29 February 2014 Draft
Feinstein, D.T., Fienen, M.N., Kennedy, J.L., Buchwald, C.A., and Greenwood, M.M. 2012.
Development and application of a groundwater/surface-water flow model using
MODFLOW-NWT for the Upper Fox River Basin, southeastern Wisconsin: U.S.
Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2012–5108, 124 p.
Harza-Ebasco Susitna Joint Venture. 1984. Lower Susitna River Sedimentation Study Project
Effects on Suspended Sediment Concentration, prepared for Alaska Power Authority,
June.
Jorgenson, M. T., J.E. Roth, M. Emers, S.F. Schlentner, D.K. Swanson, E.R. Pullman, J.S.
Mitchell, and A.A. Stickney. 2003. An ecological land survey in the Northeast Planning
Area of the National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska, 2002. ABR, Inc., Fairbanks, AK. 128
pp.
Kenneson, D.G. 1980a. Surficial Geology of the Susitna-Chulitna River Area, Alaska, Part 1:
Text, Susitna Basin Planning Background Report. Prepared for Land and Resource
Planning Section Division of Research and Development, Alaska Department of Natural
Resources, March 1980. 35 pp.
Kenneson, D.G. 1980b. Surficial Geology of the Susitna-Chulitna River Area, Alaska. Part 2:
Maps, Susitna Basin Planning Background Report. Prepared for Land and Resource
Planning Section Division of Research and Development, Alaska Department of Natural
Resources, March 1980. 27 pp.
Kirschner, C.E. 1994. Sedimentary basins in Alaska. In Plafker, George, and Berg, H.C., The
Geology of Alaska: Geological Society of America, 1 sheet, scale 1:2,500,000.
Locke, A., C. Stalnaker, S. Zellmer, K. Williams, H. Beecher, T. Richards, C. Robertson, A.
Wald, A. Paul and T. Annear. 2008. Integrated Approaches to Riverine Resource
Management: Case Studies, Science, Law, People, and Policy. Instream Flow Council,
Cheyenne, WY. 430 pp/
Maddock, Thomas, III, Baird, K.J., Hanson, R.T., Schmid, Wolfgang, and Ajami, Hoori. 2012.
RIP-ET: A riparian evapotranspiration package for MODFLOW-2005: U.S. Geological
Survey Techniques and Methods 6-A39, 76 p.
Montgomery, D. 1999. Process domains and the river continuum. Journal of the American
Water Resources Association 35 (2): 397-410.
Nakanishi, A.S., and Lilly, M.R. 1998. Estimate of aquifer properties by numerically simulating
ground-water/surface-water interactions, Fort Wainwright, Alaska: U.S. Geological
Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 98-4088, 27 p.
R2 Resource Consultants, Inc., GW Scientific and ABR, Inc. 2013. Technical Memorandum:
Riparian IFS, Groundwater and Riparian Vegetation Studies FERC Determination
Response. Prepared for AEA June 2013. 12 pp.
Rosenberry, D.O., and LaBaugh, J.W. 2008. Field techniques for estimating water fluxes
between surface water and ground water: U.S. Geological Survey Techniques and
Methods 4-D2.
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Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
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Sandone, G., and C.C. Estes. 1984. Evaluations of the effectiveness of applying infrared
imagery techniques to detect upwelling ground water. Chapter 10 in: C.C. Estes, and D.S.
Vincent-Lang, editors. Aquatic habitat and instream flow investigations, May-October
1983. Susitna Hydro Aquatic Studies. Report No.3. Alaska Department of Fish and
Game, Anchorage, Alaska. APA Document #1939.
USGS (U.S. Geological Survey). 2005. MODFLOW-2005, The U.S. Geological Survey
modular ground-water model—the Ground-Water Flow Process: U.S. Geological Survey
Techniques and Methods 6-A16.
Viereck, L.A., C.T. Dyrness, A.R. Batten, and K.J. Wenzlick. 1992. The Alaska Vegetation
Classification. Pacific Northwest Research Station, U.S. Forest Service, Portland, OR.
Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-286. 278 pp.
Wahrhaftig, Clyde. 1994. Physiographic divisions of Alaska. In Plafker, George, and Berg,
H.C., The Geology of Alaska: Geological Society of America, 1 sheet, scale 1:2,500,000.
Wilson, K. B., P.J. Hanson, P.J. Mulholland, D.D. Baldocchi and S.D. Wullschleger. 2001. A
comparison of methods for determining forest evapotranspiration and its components:
sap-flow, soil water budget, eddy covariance and catchment water balance. Agricultural
and Forest Meteorology 106(2): 153-168.
Winter, T.C. 2001. The concept of hydrologic landscapes. Journal of the American Water
Resources Association 37: 335-349.
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9. TABLES
Table 4.5-1. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection stations at FA-138 (Gold Creek).
Note: The data collection parameters include the following: air temperature, AT; camera images, Cam; groundwater level, GWL; groundwater
temperature, GWT; groundwater conductivity GWC; net radiation, NR, relative humidity, RH; sap flow, SF; soil heat flux, SHF; soil-moisture
profile, SMP; soil-temperature profile, SoTP; streambed temperature profile, STP; summer precipitation, SP; solar radiation, SR; surface-water
conductivity, SWC, surface-water height, GH; surface-water temperature, WT; wind direction, WD; wind speed, WS. A (#) indicates more than
one measurement location.
Station Short Names Station Primary Purpose Latitude Longitude Data Collection Parameters
ESGFA138-1 Groundwater 62.75758 149.70694
AT, GWL(2), GWT(2),
GH, WT, STP, SWC,
SP
ESGFA138-2 Groundwater 62.76464 149.70595 GWL(2), GWT(2), GH,
WT, STP, SWC
ESGFA138-3 Groundwater 62.75675 149.70559 GWL, GWT
ESGFA138-4 Groundwater 62.76513 149.70604 GWL, GWT
ESGFA138-5 Groundwater 62.76555 149.70621 GWL, GWT
ESGFA138-6 Groundwater 62.76934 149.70984 GH, WT
ESGFA138-7 Groundwater 62.76779 149.70720 GH, WT
ESCFA138-8 Camera 62.75268 149.70792 Cam
ESCFA138-9 Camera 62.75686 149.70529 Cam
ESCFA138-10 Camera 62.76477 149.70522 Cam
ESCFA138-11 Camera 62.76770 149.70755 Cam
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Table 4.5-2. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection stations at FA-128 (Slough 8A).
Note: The data collection parameters include the following: air temperature, AT; camera images, Cam; groundwater level, GWL; groundwater
temperature, GWT; groundwater conductivity GWC; net radiation, NR, relative humidity, RH; sap flow, SF; soil heat flux, SHF; soil-moisture
profile, SMP; soil-temperature profile, SoTP; streambed temperature profile, STP; summer precipitation, SP; solar radiation, SR; surface-water
conductivity, SWC, surface-water height, GH; surface-water temperature, WT; wind direction, WD; wind speed, WS. A (#) indicates more than
one measurement location.
Station Short Names Station Primary
Purpose Latitude Longitude Data Collection
Parameters
ESSFA128-1 Surface Water 62.66384 149.90494 AT, GH, WT, STP,
Cam
ESGFA128-2 Groundwater 62.67204 149.89403 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA128-3 Groundwater 62.67179 149.89390 GWL, GWT, SF
ESGFA128-4 Groundwater 62.67049 149.89341 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-5 Groundwater 62.66765 149.89352 GWL, GWT, GH, WT,
SF
ESGFA128-6 Groundwater 62.66660 149.89320 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA128-7 Groundwater 62.66550 149.89707
GWL(2), GWT(2),
GWC, GH, WT, SWC,
STP
ESMFA128-8 Meteorological 62.67052 149.89485 AT, RH, SMP, SR,
SoTP, SHF, WD, WS
ESGFA128-9 Groundwater 62.66349 149.90730 GWL(2), GWT(2), SF
ESGFA128-10 Groundwater 62.66393 149.90766 GWL, GWT, SF
ESGFA128-11 Groundwater 62.66596 149.91077 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA128-12 Groundwater 62.66711 149.91272 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA128-13 Groundwater 62.68626 149.90953
GWL(2), GWT(2),
GWC, GH, WT, SWC,
STP
ESSFA128-14 Surface Water 62.67271 149.89112 GH, WT
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FERC Project No. 14241 Page 33 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-2 continued. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection stations at FA-128 (Slough 8A).
Notes: (1) Data forthcoming, Latitude/Longitude data for this station not available at time of publication.
Station Short Names Station Primary
Purpose Latitude Longitude Data Collection
Parameters
ESSFA128-15 Surface Water 62.67273 149.88573 GH, WT
ESSFA128-16 Surface Water 62.67015 149.88548 GH, WT
ESSFA128-17 Surface Water 62.66888 149.88489 GH, WT
ESGFA128-18 Groundwater 62.66538 149.89694 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-19 Groundwater 62.66525 149.89681 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-20 Groundwater X1 X1 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-21 Groundwater 62.66485 149.90892 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-22 Groundwater 62.66088 149.91993 GH, WT
ESGFA128-23 Groundwater 62.66466 149.91168 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-24 Groundwater 62.66534 149.90681 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-25 Groundwater 62.66767 149.90671 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-26 Groundwater 62.66946 149.89789 GWL, GWT
ESGFA128-27 Groundwater 62.67092 149.88946 GWL, GWT
ESCFA128-29 Camera 62.67251 149.88567 Cam
ESCFA128-30 Camera 62.66804 149.88652 Cam
ESCFA128-31 Camera 62.66549 149.89812 Cam
ESCFA128-32 Camera 62.66754 149.89376 Cam
ESCFA128-33 Camera 62.67179 149.89376 Cam
ESCFA128-34 Camera 62.66719 149.91216 Cam
ESCFA128-35 Camera 62.66307 149.91039 Cam
ESCFA128-36 Camera 62.66167 149.91676 Cam
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 34 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-3. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection stations at FA-115 (Slough 6A).
Note: The data collection parameters include the following: air temperature, AT; camera images, Cam; groundwater level, GWL; groundwater
temperature, GWT; groundwater conductivity GWC; net radiation, NR, relative humidity, RH; sap flow, SF; soil heat flux, SHF; soil-moisture
profile, SMP; soil-temperature profile, SoTP; streambed temperature profile, STP; summer precipitation, SP; solar radiation, SR; surface-water
conductivity, SWC, surface-water height, GH; surface-water temperature, WT; wind direction, WD; wind speed, WS. A (#) indicates more than
one measurement location.
Station Short Names Station Primary Purpose Latitude Longitude Data Collection Parameters
ESMFA115-1 Meteorological 62.51892 150.12688
AT, RH, SMP, SR,
SoTP, SHF, GWL(2),
GWT(2), WD, WS
ESGFA115-2 Groundwater 62.51929 150.13084 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA115-3 Groundwater 62.51905 150.12550 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA115-4 Groundwater 62.51906 150.12470 GWL, GWT
ESGFA115-5 Groundwater 62.51876 150.12258 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA115-6 Groundwater 62.51868 150.12135 GWL, GWT
ESGFA115-7 Groundwater 62.51863 150.12064 GWL, GWT, GH, WT
ESGFA115-8 Groundwater 62.51914 150.12948 GWL, GWT
ESCFA115-11 Camera 62.51933 150.13072 Cam
ESCFA115-12 Camera 62.51896 150.12046 Cam
ESCFA115-13 Camera 62.51507 150.12476 Cam
ESCFA115-14 Camera 62.51357 150.12182 Cam
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 35 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-4. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection stations at FA-104 (Whiskers Slough).
Note: The data collection parameters include the following: air temperature, AT; camera images, Cam; groundwater level, GWL; groundwater
temperature, GWT; groundwater conductivity GWC; net radiation, NR, relative humidity, RH; sap flow, SF; soil heat flux, SHF; soil-moisture
profile, SMP; soil-temperature profile, SoTP; streambed temperature profile, STP; summer precipitation, SP; solar radiation, SR; surface-water
conductivity, SWC, surface-water height, GH; surface-water temperature, WT; wind direction, WD; wind speed, WS. A (#) indicates more than
one measurement location.
Station Short Names Station Primary
Purpose Latitude Longitude Data Collection
Parameters
ESSFA104-1 Surface Water 62.37676 150.16934 AT, GH, WT, STP,
Cam
ESMFA104-2 Meteorological 62.37863 150.17190
AT, RH, SMP, SR,
SoTP, SHF, GWL,
GWT, WD, WS
ESGFA104-3 Groundwater 62.37934 150.17373 GWL, GWT
ESGFA104-4 Groundwater 62.37908 150.17363 GWL, GWT, SF
ESGFA104-5 Groundwater 62.37810 150.17029 GH(2), WT(2), GWL,
GWT
ESGFA104-6 Groundwater 62.37800 150.16912 GWL(2), GWT(2), SF
ESGFA104-7 Groundwater 62.37764 150.16822 GWL, GWT, SF
ESGFA104-8 Groundwater 62.37692 150.16562 GWL, GWT, SF, GH,
WT
ESGFA104-9 Groundwater 62.37626 150.17091 GWL(2), GWT(2), GH,
WT, STP, SWC, other
ESGFA104-10 Groundwater 62.38402 150.15125 GWL(2), GWT(2), GH,
WT, STP(2)
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 36 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-4 continued. Groundwater Study primary purpose, location and parameters for data collection stations at FA-104 (Whiskers Slough).
Station Short Names Station Primary Purpose Latitude Longitude Data Collection Parameters
ESGFA104-11 Groundwater 62.37622 150.16996 GWL, GWT
ESGFA104-12 Groundwater 62.37622 150.16996 GWL, GWT
ESGFA104-13 Groundwater 62.37824 150.17100 GWL, GWT
ESCFA104-16 Camera 62.37457 150.16850 Cam
ESCFA104-17 Camera 62.37676 150.17157 Cam
ESCFA104-18 Camera 62.37943 150.16961 Cam
ESCFA104-19 Camera 62.37986 150.16679 Cam
ESCFA104-20 Camera 62.38351 150.15477 Cam
ESCFA104-21 Camera 62.38388 150.15211 Cam
ESCFA104-22 Camera 62.38180 150.16376 Cam
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 37 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-5. Groundwater Study Focus Area time-lapse camera locations and intended study applications.
Station Short Names
Station
Primary
Purpose
Date
Installed Latitude Longitude
Data Collection Applications Aquatic Transect Riparian Transect Inlet/Outlet Main Channel Side Channel Slough/Stream Leaf-out/Leaf-off Timing Ice Processes Near-Real-Time Access FA-138 (Gold Creek)
ESCFA138-8 Camera 11/6/13 62.75268 149.70792 X X X X ESCFA138-9 Camera 11/6/13 62.75686 149.70529 X X X X ESCFA138-10 Camera 11/6/13 62.76477 149.70522 X X X X X X ESCFA138-11 Camera 11/6/13 62.76770 149.70755 X X X X
FA-128 (Slough 8A)
ESSFA128-1 Surface Water 62.66384 149.90494 X X X X X
ESCFA128-29 Camera 9/29/13 62.67251 149.88567 X X X X ESCFA128-30 Camera 9/29/13 62.66804 149.88652 X X X ESCFA128-31 Camera 10/25/13 62.66549 149.89812 X X X X ESCFA128-32 Camera 10/25/13 62.66754 149.89376 X X ESCFA128-33 Camera 9/29/13 62.67179 149.89376 X X ESCFA128-34 Camera 11/3/13 62.66719 149.91216 X X X X X X ESCFA128-35 Camera 9/24/13 62.66307 149.91039 X X X X X ESCFA128-36 Camera 11/3/13 62.66167 149.91676 X X X X X
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 38 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-5 continued. Groundwater Study Focus Area time-lapse camera locations and intended study applications.
Station Short Names
Station
Primary Purpose
Date Installed Latitude Longitude
Data Collection Applications Aquatic Transect Riparian Transect Inlet/Outlet Main Channel Side Channel Slough/Stream Leaf-out/Leaf-off Timing Ice Processes Near-Real-Time Access FA-115 (Slough 6A)
ESCFA115-11 Camera 11/3/13 62.51933 150.13072 X X X X
ESCFA115-12 Camera 11/3/13 62.51896 150.12046 X X X X
ESCFA115-13 Camera 11/2/13 62.51507 150.12476 X X X
ESCFA115-14 Camera 11/2/13 62.51357 150.12182 X X X X X
FA-113 (Oxbow 1)
ESCFA113-2 Camera 11/2/13 62.49253 150.10396 X X X X X
ESCFA113-3 Camera 10/31/13 62.48663 150.09798 X X X X X
ESCFA113-4 Camera 10/31/13 62.48896 150.10530 X X X X X
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 39 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-5 continued. Groundwater Study Focus Area time-lapse camera locations and intended study applications.
Station Short Names
Station
Primary
Purpose
Date
Installed Latitude Longitude
Data Collection Applications Aquatic Transect Riparian Transect Inlet/Outlet Main Channel Side Channel Slough/Stream Leaf-out/Leaf-off Timing Ice Processes Near-Real-Time Access FA-104 (Whiskers Slough)
ESSFA104-1 Surface Water 62.37676 150.16934 X X X X X
ESCFA104-16 Camera 10/31/13 62.37457 150.16850 X X X X X
ESCFA104-17 Camera 10/31/13 62.37676 150.17157 X X X
ESCFA104-18 Camera 10/31/13 62.37943 150.16961 X X X
ESCFA104-19 Camera 10/31/13 62.37986 150.16679 X X X X X
ESCFA104-20 Camera 10/31/13 62.38351 150.15477 X X X
ESCFA104-21 Camera 10/31/13 62.38388 150.15211 X X X X X
ESCFA104-22 Camera 10/31/13 62.38180 150.16376 X X X X X
Lower River Study Sections
ESGLR1-1 Groundwater 10/06/13 62.25163 150.14323 X X X X
ESGLR2-1 Groundwater 10/12/13 61.94988 150.11497 X X X X
ESGLR3-1 Groundwater 10/06/13 61.77883 150.19319 X X X X
ESGLR4-1 Groundwater 10/12/13 61.62188 150.36803 X X X X X
ESGLR4-2 Groundwater 10/12/13 61.62126 150.35319 X X X X
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 40 February 2014 Draft
Table 4.5-6. Processes, data collection parameters and associated sensors that will be used for the Groundwater Study at selected Focus Areas.
Process Parameter Sensor Type
Surface-water stage fluctuation Pressure – calculated water levels CSI CS 451 pressure transducer
INW PT2x vented pressure transducer
Surface-water quality Temperature
CSI CS 451 pressure transducer
INW PT12, PT2x vented pressure
transducer
Groundwater level fluctuation Pressure – calculated water levels
CSI CS 451 pressure transducer
INW PT12, PT2x vented pressure
transducer
Groundwater quality, GW/SW exchange
and mixing Temperature
CSI CS 451 pressure transducer
INW PT12, PT2x vented pressure
transducer
GW/SW Interaction,
Water Quality Conductivity CSI CS457 Water conductivity and
temperature sensor
Active-layer freezing and thawing
Groundwater recharge Resistance – calculated temperature GWS-YSI vertical thermistor strings
GW/SW Fluxes Into/Out-of Streambeds
(Downwelling/Upwelling) Resistance – calculated temperature GWS-YSI vertical thermistor strings
Active-layer freezing and thawing,
Moisture availability,
root-zone moisture dynamics
Groundwater recharge
Unfrozen volumetric moisture content (%) CSI CS650 soil-moisture sensors
Evapotranspiration Air temperature, Relative Humidity CSI HC2S3 AT/RH sensor
Evapotranspiration Wind Speed, Direction RM Young 05103 WS/WD sensor
Evapotranspiration Solar Radiation, Net Radiation
Kipp and Zonen NR Lite2 Net
Radiometer and LiCor LI200
pyranometer
Evapotranspiration Soil-surface temperature GWS-YSI thermistor
Evapotranspiration Barometric Pressure CS100 Setra 278 sensor
Evapotranspiration
Recharge Precipitation (shielded) TI 525-US tipping bucket rain gage
Soil Thermal Energy Balance Soil Heat Flux HFP01SC Self-Calibrating Soil Heat Flux
Plate
Plant transpiration Delta-Temperature DI – Dynagage and TDP sensors and
sap flow algorithms
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 Page 41 February 2014 Draft
10. FIGURES
[See separate file(s) for figures.]
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 February 2014 Draft
APPENDIX A: EXAMPLE 1970 AND 2011 FOCUS AREA IMAGERY
[See separate file for Appendix.]
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 February 2014 Draft
APPENDIX B: DATA-COLLECTION STATION METADATA EXAMPLES
[See separate file for Appendix.]
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 February 2014 Draft
APPENDIX C: DATA-COLLECTION STATION PROGRAMS AND WIRING
DIAGRAM EXAMPLES
[See separate file for Appendix.]
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 February 2014 Draft
APPENDIX D: SELECTED FOCUS AREA TIME-LAPSE PHOTO
EXAMPLES
[See separate file for Appendix.]
INITIAL STUDY REPORT GROUNDWATER STUDY (7.5)
Susitna-Watana Hydroelectric Project Alaska Energy Authority
FERC Project No. 14241 February 2014 Draft
APPENDIX E: LEVEL-LOOP SURVEY AND SURVEY CONTROL POINTS
EXAMPLES
[See separate file for Appendix.]