Hydrogeology of Snowy River Passage, Fort Stanton Cave, New Mexico

Abstract

hydrogeology a conceptual the which the its the to the Snowy current known extent of the Passage. Chemistry and stream discharge data indicate that Eagle Creek is likely the main source of water for Snowy River. Seepage from Eagle Creek recharges a perched aquifer in the fluvial sediments that lie below the Snowy River calcite formation that lines the stream channel. Water in this aquifer leaks downward to recharge the regional aquifer. During periods of high stream discharge in Eagle Creek, when recharge rates exceed leakage rates, a pressure response to the head increase in the recharge area causes the water table to quickly rise above the streambed, initiating stream flow in Snowy River, which ultimately discharges at Government Spring and flows into the Rio Bonito.