Description:
Thirty-one automated groundwater wells were installed throughout the project area to monitor groundwater hydrology in the absence of irrigation. The groundwater well data was calibrated using field observations to account for the depth to saturation as required by the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE). The well data along with trends in elevation, soils and vegetation was used to delineate irrigation-induced wetlands from natural wetlands on the property. Influence of irrigation practices was found to be significant in transition areas between streams and uplands on the site. Hydrologic data was recorded and analyzed throughout the 2000 and 2001 growing seasons both in the presence and absence of irrigation. In May and June of 2001, the landowners did not irrigate and the hydrologic criterion was not met at all 31 well locations in the absence of irrigation. During a site visit with the ACOE, it was concluded and verified that sub-irrigation water contributed the majority of the hydrology to the wetlands on the property; and that in the absence of irrigation, the natural flow coming from the area streams was insufficient to support wetland vegetation beyond their stream channels.