Potentiometric surface and hydrologic conditions of the South Coast aquifer, Santa Isabel area, Puerto Rico, March–April, 2014

Abstract

A potentiometric surface map of the South Coast aquifer near Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico, was created from data collected during a synoptic survey of groundwater levels at 55 wells from March 31 to April 17, 2014. Measured groundwater level values ranged from −22.8 to 185.4 feet above mean sea level. During the study period, cumulative rainfall of 0.65 inch was recorded in the study area. Measurements of instantaneous streamflow at 15 locations in streams and irrigation canals, and locations of irrigation ponds, provide additional information about the hydrologic setting. Results of the study indicate a cone of depression was present near the center and eastern parts of the Santa Isabel area of southern Puerto Rico, and a small, deeper cone of depression existed west of Santa Isabel and Rio Coamo. These cones of depression represent areas where the potentiometric surface was below mean sea level. The long-term persistence of such conditions could result in seawater intrusion and an increase in concentrations of total dissolved solids within the South Coast aquifer.