Ground Water and Surface Water A Single Resource

Ground Water and Surface Water: A Single Resource (USGS Circular 1139)

Authors: Thomas C. Winter, Judson W. Harvey, O. Lehn Franke, William M. Alley

Ground Water and Surface Water: A Single Resource is a widely respected technical publication produced by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) that clearly explains one of the most important concepts in water resources engineering: groundwater and surface water function as a connected system, not as separate resources. This circular remains a highly valuable reference for hydrologists, civil and environmental engineers, water managers, and students seeking a scientifically reliable foundation for integrated water management.

A major strength of this report is its ability to translate complex hydrologic interactions into a professional yet accessible explanation of how water moves through watersheds, aquifers, streams, lakes, and wetlands. It highlights how flow exchange can occur in both directions depending on site conditions—meaning rivers may recharge aquifers, and aquifers may sustain baseflow in rivers. This concept is essential in real engineering decisions such as groundwater pumping, drought planning, stream restoration, and contamination control.

The publication is also highly relevant for environmental and regulatory work because it explains how contamination can migrate through connected water systems. It demonstrates how polluted aquifers can create long-term surface water impacts, and how surface pollution can infiltrate groundwater—making the report directly applicable to risk assessment and sustainable land-use planning.

Overall, USGS Circular 1139 is an authoritative and practical resource that supports modern water policy and engineering by reinforcing the importance of managing surface water and groundwater together as one integrated resource.

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