Geology Commons^™

Geogram 2013, David J. Keeling Editor, Wku Department Of Geography And Geology

Earth, Environmental, and Atmospheric Sciences Publications

No abstract provided.

Hydrogeologic Variations Across A Barrier Island That Influence Inter-Dune Wetlands False Cape State Park, Virginia, Matthew Collier Richardson

OES Theses and Dissertations

False Cape State Park in southeastern Virginia Beach, Virginia contains a transgressive barrier island complex. Inter-dune swales located on the eastern coast of the barrier island contain soils that experience hydric conditions. However, these swales lack the prolonged presence of hydric soil indicators that are necessary for a site to be officially recognized as a jurisdictional wetland. The appearance and subsequent disappearance of redoximorphic wetland soil features in the young, sandy soils of the inter-dune swales here may stem from changes in the patterns of groundwater recharge and discharge across the island. These soils are being monitored by the Mid …

Unusual Polygenetic Void And Cave Development In Dolomitized Miocene Chalks On Barbados, West Indies, Jonathan B. Sumrall, John E. Mylroie, Hans G. Machel

International Journal of Speleology

Barbados provides an unusual case of polygenetic cave development within dolomitized chalks and marls of the Miocene Oceanics Group. These diagenetic processes are driven by a succession and interplay of tectonic uplift, fracturing, hypogene fluid injection, overprinting by mixing zone diagenesis, and mechanical and biological erosion in the current littoral zone. The significance of the voids and caves within the chalks on Barbados are: 1) these appear to be the first dissolution caves documented in dolomitized chalk, and 2) these features show a polygenetic origin documenting the diagenetic changes in lithology that allowed the development and preservation of these cave …

Late Holocene Paleoenvironmental Reconstruction In Barbados, Gilman Reno Ouellette

Masters Theses & Specialist Projects

Barbados is the easternmost island in the Caribbean region, and is uniquely situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Being an isolated island with a karstified aquifer providing the majority of the nation’s water resources, Barbados has found itself in water scarce situations in recent years. In order to better understand natural shifts in groundwater recharge (which is determined by shifts in precipitation), longer records of precipitation are needed than are available from modern measurements. This study presents a paleoclimate reconstruction for the late Holocene on Barbados using stable and radiogenic isotope ratios in speleothem lamina as proxies. In …

Landslides Of Nebraska, Duane A. Eversoll

Conservation and Survey Division: Faculty and Staff Publications

No abstract provided.

Assessment And Conceptualization Of Groundwater Flow In The Edwards Aquifer Through The Knippa Gap In Uvalde County, Texas, Jennifer Raye Adkins

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The Edwards aquifer is one of the major regional karst aquifers in the United States, with an average withdrawal of 950 million liters per day (L/d). This investigation focuses on the connection between the Uvalde pool and the San Antonio pool of the Edwards aquifer, known as the Knippa Gap, west of the San Antonio metropolitan area in Uvalde County. This is a major zone of recharge to the Edwards aquifer and is approximately 6.4 km wide. The Knippa Gap is bounded by northeast trending faults of the Balcones Fault Zone (BFZ) on the north (specifically the Cooks and Trio …

Hydrogeologic Characterization Of Dutch Canyon, Scappoose, Oregon, Derrick Lee Wagner

Dissertations and Theses

Dutch Canyon is located directly west of the City of Scappoose in Columbia County Oregon. This area is proximate to Highway 30, a major access corridor to downtown Portland, and is experiencing a population increase, which is expected to continue and likely accelerate. As a result, there is growing pressure on water resources. Individual and community efforts to utilize groundwater resources have been hampered by generally poor groundwater yields and water quality concerns outside of the Columbia River corridor and a lack of published hydrogeologic information for the region.

The intent of this study is to identify the water-bearing units …

Investigations Into The Regional And Local Timescale Variations Of Subglacial Drainage Networks, Justin Hiester

Dissertations and Theses

Subglacial water plays an important role in the regulation of an ice sheet's mass balance. It may be the dominant control on the velocities of ice streams and outlet glaciers on scales of months to millennia. Recent satellite observations of ice surface elevation changes have given researchers new insights into how subglacial water is stored and transported. Localized uplift and settling of the ice surface implies that lakes exist beneath the ice sheet that are being filled and drained on relatively short time scales. %At the base of an ice sheet water can be transported through a variety of drainage …

The Evaluation Of Water Storage In Death Valley Using Grace Satellite Data, Maile Sweigart

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

As drought conditions spread across the United States, concerns over water supplies, water use, and water management policies are growing and possible contributing environmental factors are continually being scrutinized. This thesis examines Death Valley as an analog for Southern Nevada and utilizes NASA EOS data, combined with ancillary climate data, to assess the effect of decadal climate variability on groundwater storage in the Death Valley area. Historical climate data, combined with satellite imagery observations, were compiled and calculated for analyses. Conclusions derived from statistical analyses infer trends between GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment) satellite data and fluctuating levels of …

A Combined Radio- And Stable-Isotopic Study Of A California Coastal Aquifer System, Peter W. Swarzenski, Mark Baskaran, Robert J. Rosenbauer, Brian D. Edwards, Michael Land

Environmental Science and Geology Faculty Research Publications

Stable and radioactive tracers were utilized in concert to characterize geochemical processes in a complex coastal groundwater system and to provide constraints on the kinetics of rock/water interactions. Groundwater samples from wells within the Dominguez Gap region of Los Angeles County, California were analyzed for a suite of major cations (Na⁺, K⁺, Mg²⁺, Ca²⁺) and anions (Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻), silica, alkalinity, select trace elements (Ba, B, Sr), dissolved oxygen, stable isotopes of hydrogen (δD), oxygen (δ¹⁸O), dissolved inorganic carbon (δ¹³C_DIC), and radioactive …

Preliminary Groundwater Level Changes At Selected Sites In Nebraska Following The Drought Of 2012, Aaron R. Young, Mark E. Burbach, Leslie M. Howard

Conservation and Survey Division: Faculty and Staff Publications

No abstract provided.

Effects Of Flow Rates And Composition Of The Filter, And Decay/Ingrowth Correction Factors Involved With The Determination Of In Situ Particulate 210Po And 210Pb In Seawater, Mark Baskaran, Thomas Church, Gi Hong, Anupam Kumar, Ma Qiang, Hui Choi, Sylvain Rigaud, Kanchan Maiti

Environmental Science and Geology Faculty Research Publications

Accurate measurements of particulate ²¹⁰Po (²¹⁰Po_p) and ²¹⁰Pb (²¹⁰Pb_p) are required in the investigation of (i) partitioning of Po and Pb between particulate and dissolved phases and (ii) export estimates of carbon and other key trace metals from the euphotic zone via sinking particulate matter. Based on the intercomparison of different composition of the filter material (QMA, Supor, Millipore, and Pall GN6) and flow rates (2 to 8 L min), we show how these factors affect the measured concentrations of ²¹⁰Po_p and ²¹⁰Pb_p and their activity …

Sump Diving “River Caves”, Mark Wenner

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Note: “Sump” is a term used in caving to describe a passage in a cave that is submerged under water.

Sump diving, and “lure of the sump” originated in the UK in the early 1920’s, as did the use of “rebreather’s, and the “self-contained underwater breathing apparatus”, S.C.U.B.A. The techniques developed by cavers, and “sump divers” in Europe, and then used in British cave systems like Wookey Hole set a cave diving precedence; the development of a unique style, and system for diving caves. These diving practices and techniques influenced the exploration of resurgences, springs, siphons, and river caves throughout …

Multiple Storm Event Impacts On Epikarst Storage And Transport Of Organic Soil Amendments In South-Central Kentucky, Jason Polk, Sean Vanderhoff, Chris Groves, Benjamin Miller, Carl Bolster

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

The groundwater in agricultural karst areas, such as Kentucky’s Pennyroyal Plateau, is susceptible to contamination from organic soil amendments and pesticides. During 2011, water samples and geochemical data were collected every four hours before, during, and between storm events from a waterfall in Crumps Cave from January to September to track the transport and residence time of epikarst water and organic soil amendments during variable fl ow conditions. Geochemical data consisting of pH, specific conductivity, temperature, and discharge were collected continuously at 10-minute intervals, along with rainfall amounts. The changes in geochemistry indicate simultaneous storage and transport of meteoric water …

Sable Melodists, Janet Bass Smith

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Inside Mammoth Cave on Broadway Avenue, between the last TB hut and Star Chamber, the name Sable Melodists is inscribed on the wall, using what appears to be charcoal. Next to Sable Melodists are the names of two men: R. H. Condon, and J. M. Foans. (See Figures 1, 2, and 3) When the name Sable Melodists was researched several years ago, the only information available was that it was a minstrel group. A recent search revealed more information, and provoked a more complete investigation of minstrel groups and minstrel shows, and their evolution.

Pre-Service Teachers Learn About Karst Geology At Mammoth Cave National Park, Jeanine Huss, Cheryl Messenger

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

All Preservice elementary science methods students at Western Kentucky University participate in a one-day or two-day experience at Mammoth Cave National Park. This trip has occurred over the past seven semesters. Through this experience, students gain knowledge about their local unique karst environment.

Using Interactive Simulation To Extend Access To Learning Along The Historic Tour Route Of Mammoth Cave National Park, Christopher L. Atchison, Don Stredney, Karen E. Irving, Rick Toomey, Alan Price, Thomas Kerwin, Bradley Hittle, Phillip J. Reed

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

This poster presentation displays work of a current project to address the problem of limited inclusion to field-based learning experiences for students with physical disabilities. Led by researchers at Georgia State University, Ohio State University and Mammoth Cave International Center for Science and Learning, the overall objective of the project is through integration of emerging simulation technologies and techniques, to provide a rich virtual environment of a geological field site for students with mobility impairments. Through the development of a synthetic field-based module that employs a virtual environment that interchangeably uses two and three-dimensional representation for presenting an alternative to …

Mammoth Cave National Park Backcountry Trail And Stream Monitoring, 2009-2012, Larry Johnson, Student Conservation Association Conservation

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

This project conducted an assessment of backcountry trail conditions on the north side of the Green River in Mammoth Cave National Park during summers of 2009-2012. The project included assessing physical parameters of trails, (width, depth, etc.) and conducting an assessment of water quality of streams in proximity of backcountry trails. The project was conducted by Student Conservation Association resource assistants (12 weeks each) supervised by a natural resource specialist from the Mammoth Cave Division of Science and Resources Management. Trail assessment procedures were based on techniques developed by Jeff ery L. Marion, Ph.D, USGS, Virginia Tech (et al.) and …

Improvements To The Rv Waste-Transfer Station Design To Reduce Contaminated Storm Runoff, David Solomon, Sean Mcmillian, Ashley West, Lonnie Sharpe

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Mammoth Cave in Central Kentucky is the world’s longest cave system and has been designated an international biosphere. It has unique organisms that live in the cave system and they are dependant upon high quality water supplied through rain recharge. We have documented quaternary ammonia compounds (QAC) levels ranging from 0.2 to 22 mg/L in storm fl ow, as well as, other chemicals coming from the RV waste-transfer station. The objective of this project was to re-design the drain system around the dump station to prevent spillage from washing down into the cave. The first design feature is a v-trench …

Use Of Sorption Isotherms To Improve The Efficacy Of The Storm-Water Filters, Hung-Wai Ho, Rick Toomey

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Sorption has been widely used as an inexpensive and environmental friendly water treatment technology. A large variety of adsorbents with different adsorption mechanisms have drawn interests, and combinations of adsorbents will enhance sorption of mixed solutions. However, current sorption research tends to focus on single material. The objective of this study was to develop sorption isotherms for ZPG®, (Zeolite, Perlite, Granular Activated Carbon), used in a stormwater filter cartridge. Contaminants of concern include Cu2+ and quaternary ammonia compounds (QAC). Adsorption isotherms were established for Cu2+ and QAC, and the best fit for the isotherm data was a Langmuir isotherm for …

Water Quality Monitoring At Mammoth Cave National Park, Brenda Wells, Joe Meiman

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Since the main objective of the monitoring program for Cumberland Piedmont Network (CUPN) is to detect, and understand changes in major ecosystem resources, the poster information will show results of what has occurred with water quality in the park since 2004. The data cover 13 sites, sampled once a month for 2 years on and 5 years off . The main parameters monitored for MACA include: air and water temperature, pH, fl ow, dissolved oxygen, specific conductivity, E. Coli, nitrates and turbidity. The data are compiled and analyzed at the end of every sampling cycle ultimately for addressing park management …

Three Examples Of Chemical Transport In Storm Runoff At Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, Ashley West, David Solomon, Hung-Wai Ho, Victor Roland, Irucka Embry, Rick Toomey, Roger Painter, Lonnie Sharpe, Dafeng Hui

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

The karst landscape at Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, was formed by water through the dissolution of soluble rocks forming sinkholes, disappearing streams, emerging springs, closed depressions, and a combination of wet and dry caves. The Park’s cave streams and pools provide a home to unique organisms. Surface waters in the Park tend to rapidly drain into subsurface geologic features and caves. This rapid infiltration makes the subsurface vulnerable to contamination. The objective of this investigation was to characterize chemical transport from the surface into the cave. The preliminary results were achieved by tracer studies and monitoring water chemistry along …

Potential Effects Of Hydrogen Sulfide And Hydrocarbon Seeps On Mammoth Cave Ecosystems, Rick Olson

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Recently, Mammoth Cave Guide Bruce Hatcher reported what appeared to be contaminated water seeping into Marianne’s Pass. I visited the site and concluded that it was not likely due to pollution, and that it was a natural phenomenon. To be sure, I sampled the water for fecal coliform and E. coli analyses since sewer lines are in the area. The results were <1 mpn/100ml in both cases. A sulfur spring is mentioned at this site in Rambles in the Mammoth Cave, which was published in 1845, and this predates any well drilling that could lead to hydrocarbon and sulfide pollution. Another line of evidence that the seeps are natural is that they are all deeply weathered into the bedrock, which takes a long time. The seeps support thousands of springtails, which feed on the microbial mats, and crickets are common as well. A possible effect on biodiversity will be discussed.

Particulate Inorganic Carbon Flux In Karst And Its Signifi Cance To Karst Development And The Carbon Cycle, Randall L. Paylor, Carol M. Wicks

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Chemical removal of carbonate is generally assumed to dominate the inorganic carbon cycle in karst, but mechanical removal of carbonate during storm events may be significant. To determine the significance, particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) flux in bed load and suspended load is being quantified and compared to dissolved inorganic carbon flux in three karst systems: Mammoth Cave, KY; Blowing Cave, KY; and Tumbling Creek Cave, MO

Using S Isotopes To Identify The Source Of Gypsum In Mammoth Cave, J. Garrecht Metzger, David A. Fiske, Bob Osburn, Aaron Addison

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Many of the dry passages of the cave are lined with gypsum (CaSO4�2H2O) crystals, an evaporite mineral. However, the source of the sulfur in these gypsum deposits is poorly constrained with possible sources including pyrite, sedimentary gypsum/anhydrite, and carbonate associated sulfate (“CAS”, SO42- substituted for CO3 2- in the calcite crystal lattice). The two most abundant forms of sulfur in the bedrock above and around Mammoth Cave are pyrite (FeSs) and CAS. These phases commonly have very different isotopic signatures (δ34S)* and the δ34S values of these phases can be compared to the δ34S of the gypsum to aid in …

Mysteries Of The Underground River, Tk Stone Middle School Students, Shannon R. Trimboli, Kim Weber, Susan Ryan, Rick Toomey

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Have you ever heard of a river that that flows backwards? Mammoth Cave, the longest cave system in the world, has an underground river exhibiting reverse fl ow patterns since at least the 1960’s and most likely earlier. Beginning in 2009, 7th graders from T.K. Stone Middle School in Elizabethtown, Kentucky have been teaming with WKU researchers to study and conduct research about this phenomenon.

An Alternative To The Advection Dispersion Model For Interpreting Dye Tracing Studies In Fractured-Rock And Karst Aquifers, Roger Painter, Irucka Embry, Victor Roland, Rick Toomey

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Due to the complexity of groundwater fl ow in fractured-rock and karst aquifers, solute transport models for these aquifers are typically stochastic models based on tracer transport studies. Water and tracers do not fl ow at one single advective velocity but experience a wide range of velocities, from rapid fl ow in conduits to near stagnant conditions in adjacent voids. This variance of velocities is referred to as dispersion and is traditionally described mathematically by the advection-dispersion equation (ADE). Analytical solutions to the ADE are available and are referred to as advection-dispersion models (ADM).The ADM is fitted to the tracer …

Geophysical Logging Of A Park Well, Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, Michael W. Bradley

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Geophysical logs are used to measure various physical properties of the underlying rock formations or the fluids contained in the rocks. Probes that measure different properties are lowered into a well or borehole and the measured data are displayed by depth. The properties displayed in the geophysical log can then be correlated to known geologic formations, changes in rock type, or changes in rock or fl uid properties. The two types of logs run at Mammoth Cave were natural gamma and caliper. Gamma logs record the amount of natural gamma radiation emitted by the rocks surrounding the borehole. Clay and …

Karst Hydrogeology Of The Haney Limestone, South Central Kentucky, Sarah Arpin, Chris Goves

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

South-central Kentucky has one of the world’s most intensively studied karst areas, with most work focusing on the Mammoth Cave System and the related aquifers within the Mississippian St. Louis, Ste. Genevieve and Girkin Limestones. Within much of the Mammoth Cave Plateau, these limestones are overlain by the Big Clifty Sandstone and other formations that form a protective caprock within the area’s major ridges. Above the Big Clifty, in turn, is the Mississippian Haney Limestone, typically about 12 m thick, which forms a locally important but much less well studied carbonate aquifer. This research provides the most comprehensive hydrogeologic synthesis …

Paleontology And Paleoecology Of Interglacial Guano Deposits In Mammoth Cave, Ky, Chris Widga, Mona Colburn

Mammoth Cave Research Symposia

Mammoth Cave guano deposits contain a rich record of troglofauna spanning the last 125,000 years. In particular, chiropteran remains from Chief City provide insight into ecosystem dynamics of the cave area during the last interglacial. This paper presents results of paleontological excavations undertaken in 2008.

Sub-fossil remains (N=1134) in Chief City guano deposits are dominated by chiropteran taxa. Although all identified taxa are extant, the combination of Myotis leibii and Tadarida brasiliensis is an association without modern analogue. Stable isotope analyses of guano indicate a C3 prey signature characteristic of forested habitat. This was unexpected given the prevalence of T. …