AQUIFER 1

Aquifer 1 is an educational module that demonstrates geologic formation of a particular region and the simple hydrology of that region, focusing on its environmental vulnerability. The model area is the Rathdrum Prairie of Northern Idaho. The structure is the sole source Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer . Although this is a specific regional study, it may be used as an example regardless of the user's location. It may be used as is, or adapted in any manner. The user is free to use it as a stand-alone module, or extract parts for use as needed.

The module begins with how the aquifer structure was developed historically as a result of the intrusion of a finger of the Purcell Lobe of the Cordilleran Ice Sheet during the ice age. The effects of the Great Spokane Floods from ancient glacial Lake Missoula are also mentioned for their role in the aquifer formation. It discusses the formation of an unconfined aquifer as opposed to a confined type. The origin of the water supply (chiefly from the Clark Fork River drainage through Lake Pend Oreille; from the Coeur d'Alene River and St. Joe River drainages through Lake Coeur d'Alene; from various smaller local lakes: Spirit Lake, Twin Lakes, Newman Lake, Hauser Lake, Liberty Lake, and
Hayden Lake; seepage from the Spokane River; and, of course, local precipitation) and its history is covered next. The final discussion is on man's use of and effects upon the aquifer. Idaho water use is discussed from a historical perspective, and is compared to the changing population patterns of today and tomorrow. Use is examined from domestic, agricultural, and commercial/industrial viewpoints. Also examined are the levels of governmental control over water protection.

There are text, review questions, vocabulary studies and numerous activities for each chapter. There is a second section of activities related to water and its use and conservation. These activities have been chosen for their adaptability in other curricular areas, so the student can be immersed in the topic in most of his classes simultaneously (with faculty cooperation).

A complete list of references is provided for further searches and a greater depth of knowledge. Potential users are encouraged to seek further information from the module builder!

KEY TERMS: unconfined aquifer, domestic water pollution, agricultural pollution, industrial pollution, water conservation, groundwater

Module prepared by Greg Cossette gcossett@sd273.k12.id.us or greg_id@hotmail.com

Woodrow Wilson Leadership Program in Environmental Science

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