| The shallow aquifer
The shallow aquifer is located underground in central, eastern and southeastern parts of the Las Vegas Valley. It is primarily created through excess irrigation.
Water runoff is trapped near the land surface by impermeable clay and caliche. The shallow groundwater lies within 50 feet of land surface. Recent groundwater modeling shows that more than 100,000 acre-feet of irrigation water may be accumulating in this shallow zone each year.
Treating shallow aquifer water for other uses
The shallow aquifer water quality is poor with total dissolved solids exceeding acceptable drinking water standards in most locations. It is possible to treat shallow groundwater for drinking, but costs are still relatively high. As technology improves and other sources of water become more expensive, the use of shallow groundwater may be a viable option.
Recycling and reusing
The University of Nevada, Reno, in cooperation with the Las Vegas Valley
Water District, conducted a study using shallow groundwater for landscape
irrigation. Researchers blended shallow groundwater and drinking water
to determine the response of grass irrigated with water with elevated
salt concentrations--water in the shallow system contains high levels
of salt. The results showed it was possible to blend the two water sources
and maintain a healthy landscape.
Using it to our advantage
Shallow groundwater and water in the Las Vegas Wash have traditionally
been viewed as a nuisance in the valley. However, the wetlands that surround
the Las Vegas Wash serve as a vital link in the water cycle by filtering
shallow groundwater and other flows before they reach Lake Mead. The wetlands
also provide habitat for a variety of plants and animals. |
