Using Stable Isotope Analysis (δD and δ18O) and Tracing Tests to Characterize the Regional Hydrogeological Characteristics of Kazeroon County, Iran

Abstract

Unpredictable climate changes are affecting water resources, especially in karst arid and semiarid areas. In such locations, the need for additional sources of water always arises. The paper gives insight into hydrogeological characteristics of Kazeroo County and resolves some unknowns around the catchment area of the springs important for water supply of the wider urban area of the city of Kazeroon, Iran, by using stable isotope analysis (δD and δ18O) and tracer test. Multiple tracer test and stable isotope analysis were conducted for research purposes. The uranine injected at Tale Milek 1 borehole was detected in the Chenar Shahijan spring in less than 2 and in the Seyed Hossein spring after 6 days. Small amounts of uranine were detected in the Sasan and Pirsabz springs. Based on the high apparent flow velocity (approximately 1750–2000 m/day), the underground system has a quick response to the precipitation during dry seasons. The assumed hydraulic connection between Shahneshin North (Asmari) and Dashtak Northzones has been confirmed by tracer test since the dye injected in Northern Asmari Shahneshin anticline appeared in the springs in Dashtak North zone. The results of water stable isotope measurements show that the catchment area of karst springs in the vicinity of Kazeroo is probably over 2000 m at the area of Shahneshin anticline and is positioned lower than the catchment area of Arjan spring.

A New Index to Assess the Effect of Climate Change on Karst Spring Flow Rate

“…According to the studies of [36], the reaction time of Sasan spring to maximum rainfall events is from 6 to 85 days with an average of 43 days, its memory effect using ACF is 90 days and, based on CCF, the reaction time for quick flow and base flow is estimated at 18 and 58 days, respectively. It is reported that this spring has a conduit flow type [37]. Rain recording stations were selected for this study based on the closest measuring station of meteorological parameters to the area where each spring appeared (Table 1).…”

Application of the Tracer Test in a Hydrogeological Survey for a Pumped Storage Power Station

“…Hua et al [21] developed an innovative dimension reduction model (DRM) based on tracer test results, which effectively characterizes fractured networks and predicts the flow and transport within the fractured aquifers, further demonstrating its applicability to fractured network characterization at the field scale. Dogančić et al [22] established the hydraulic connectivity between Shahneshin North and Dashtak North through the use of stable isotope analysis (δD and δ 18 O) alongside multiple tracer tests.…”

Groundwater Modelling in Karst Areas

“…Dogančić et al [4] presented several investigation actions performed to better characterize the hydrogeological characteristics of Kazeroo County (Iran). The new knowledge is of significant importance for managing the karst aquifer for water supply purposes.…”