LEE COUNTY GROUNDWATER RESOURCE & MINING STUDY SUMMARY

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This Study is intended to address the surficial and intermediate groundwater resources of Lee County and also to address the rock mine resources.  It is intended to provide scientific background information that can be used for an assessment of the resource in a planning and land use context.  The goal of this Study is to develop a sound, scientifically-based platform from which to evaluate land use decisions, in particular those decisions related to the DRGR land use classification, as well as mining activities.

Analyses are provided regarding the effectiveness of the existing land use designations in relation to water resources, whether any recognizable changes in resources have occurred (increase or decrease), and any notable issues or trends with regard to groundwater aquifers meeting natural and/or human demands.  The review evaluated existing studies, water use permits, existing database information, utility plans and past pumpage, lithologic well logs, County files, and other information as deemed necessary and appropriate.

A second component of the study is an evaluation of mining.  Commercial mining/excavation activities are an important resource and are allowed to occur in several land use categories.  The purpose of the review is to update or determine the following: location and quality of mineral resources; evaluation of the current capacity of approved mining activities; evaluation of the future need for mining material; and, the effects of mining activities on water resources and the water budget.

This report assesses the groundwater and mining resources through the process of data collection and technical analysis.  These assessments will assist the County with any needed future planning decisions.  The Study’s approach utilized the existing database model (Viewlog) and the incorporation of additional data into the model analyses.

Also as part of the study, Surface Water Flow-ways for all of Lee County have been mapped to aid in review of sensitive environmental areas.

In accordance with the Scope of Work requested by Lee County, the following were studied and discussed in detail and will be presented.

Modeling

The Viewlog database model was updated for Lee County and the surrounding region.  A water level database was also created for the region.  A new “Modflow” Groundwater Flow Model was created and calibrated based upon the updated Viewlog database information.  The groundwater model has enabled the evaluation of a number of existing, future and hypothetical scenarios.  It was also used to evaluate aerially specific recharge rates for the surficial system.

Groundwater Level Analysis

At the same time the groundwater flow model was updated, site specific water level data from select locations throughout the county was reviewed and compiled.  The water level data was used for two purposes.  The first was to evaluate water level changes since the inception of the DRGR to determine if levels have remained in line with historic levels.  Secondly, the water level data was used in conjunction with the groundwater flow model for groundwater recharge evaluation.

Water Supply Potential

Water supply trends resulting from regulatory changes that have occurred since DRGR inception were also evaluated.  The water supply potential of the surficial system was also addressed.  One of the benefits associated with the creation of a calibrated groundwater flow model is the ability for the County to utilize the model to update the zones of wellfield protection in the future.

Evaluation of Location and Extent of Mining Reserves

After the Viewlog model was updated with relevant mining information, the model was used to estimate the commercial mining reserves within Lee County.  With mining reserves quantified, the calibrated groundwater flow model was adapted to evaluate the impact of open pit mining on the hydrologic system.  Impacts of mining on the water resources were also addressed in addition to the overlying land cover associated with the deposits that could limit their extraction.  Countywide demand for commercially mined materials was also assessed.

Table of Contents

Lee County Groundwater Resource and Mining Study

1. INTRODUCTION

2. SCOPE OF WORK
3. BACKGROUND
4. LEE PLAN, ZONING AND SMART GROWTH
5. Topography, Hydrology and Flow-ways
6. Geology of Lee County
7. GROUNDWATER RESOURCE ANALYSIS
8. MINING RESOURCE ANALYSIS
9. CONCLUSIONS
10. RECOMMENDATIONS
11. REFERENCES
12. Appendices

    Part 1

    Part 2

    Part 3

    Part 4

    Part 5

    Part 6

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