Presented by Dr. Dave Adam
PhD in Geology/Geophysics from the University of Oregon
There have been numerous investigations into the alluvial aquifer which provides drinking water for southern Jackson Hole. Among the earlier studies was the USGS geophysical effort to determine the depth to bedrock in the area, i.e. the size and shape of what Dave Love called “the soup bowl”. Analysis of samples from the drilling of water wells provided information regarding the vertical and horizontal heterogeneity of the alluvium itself. This was augmented by the study of Miocene/Pliocene lake deposits, including surprises encountered in the drill cores of the Budge Slide. Finally the Teton Conservation District and the USGS have for over two decades conducted hydrological studies on the relation of Fish Creek and groundwater, highlighting the creek’s role in draining the soup bowl.
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