Hydrological Characterization and Statistical Analysis of Groundwater Quality for the Ogallala Aquifer in the Permian Basin, Texas, USA

Abstract

The objective of this research is to analyze the groundwater quality of the Ogallala Aquifer and assess the hydrological characteristics within the Southern High Plains region of the Permian Basin in West Texas, USA. Levels of arsenic, lithium, hardness, and total dissolved solids (TDS), provided from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), were evaluated through the years 1990-2016. A total of 133 wells were analyzed, varying from 4 wells in one county to 19 wells in another. Statistical mean, maximum and minimum values, and sample standard deviation were utilized to evaluate the data, its distribution, and propose trends. The average levels of the contaminants for each year available in every county were assessed to the respective maximum contaminant levels (MCL) or secondary MCL set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The study outlined the potential threats to human well-being that are associated with each contaminant. Available sources of each contaminant and their uses in everyday life were also discussed. This research provides important information on how oil and gas developments, agricultural practices, and other human activities impact groundwater quality and contributes on understanding the response to development in the Southern High Plains Region and Permian Basin.