Hydrogeology and Groundwater Resources of the Coastal Aquifers of Southeastern Massachusetts

John P. Masterson; Donald A. Walter

doi:10.3133/cir1338

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Hydrogeology and Groundwater Resources of the Coastal Aquifers of Southeastern Massachusetts

John P. Masterson·Donald A. Walter

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Abstract

The glacially derived aquifer systems of southeastern Massachusetts compose the largest groundwater reservoir in the State. Population increases, land-use changes, and climate change in this area could lead to three primary environmental effects that relate directly to groundwater resources - (1) increases in pumping that could adversely affect environmentally sensitive groundwater-fed surface waters, such as ponds, streams, and wetlands; (2) changes in land use that could affect the quality of water in the aquifer; and (3) changes in precipitation and mean sea level that can affect water levels, streamflow, and the position of the freshwater/saltwater boundary. Therefore, understanding groundwater flow and the factors that can affect it is critical to managing and protecting this vital resource.

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Circular Report

Source-reported bounding extent: 41.5° to 42.25° latitude; -71° to -69.75° longitude. This indicates report coverage, not an exact sampling location. View area on OpenStreetMap.

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John P. Masterson, Donald A. Walter. 2009. Hydrogeology and Groundwater Resources of the Coastal Aquifers of Southeastern Massachusetts. https://doi.org/10.3133/cir1338

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