U.S. Geological Survey researchers used computer models to simulate changes in groundwater levels in Death Valley’s aquifer system over the next century.
A calibrated groundwater-flow model was used to simulate potential future effects of groundwater pumping on water levels and natural groundwater discharge in the study area. Effects of climate change on future groundwater pumping were not considered and were beyond the scope of the study.
Four groundwater-pumping scenarios were developed by stakeholders to predict and compare:
- The extent of regional water-level declines
- Drawdown at Devils Hole
- Reductions in natural discharge at select discharge areas, including the Amargosa Wild and Scenic River, the Ash Meadows discharge area, the Furnace Creek area, and Stump Spring.
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