Large-scale aquifer sensitivity model

A 480-square-mile region within Will County, in northeastern Illinois, was used as a test region for the development of a methodology to map the sensitivity of aquifers to contamination. An aquifer sensitivity model was developed using a geographic information system (GIS) to overlay and combine several data layers. The components used for our model are: (1) depth to sand and gravel or bedrock, (2) thickness of the uppermost sand and gravel aquifer, (3) glacial drift thickness, and (4) bedrock geology. The model is an improvement over many previous aquifer sensitivity models because it combines specific information on depth to the uppermost aquifer with information on the thickness of the uppermost sand and gravel aquifer. This county-wide model results in an aquifer sensitivity map that can be a useful tool for making land-use planning decisions regarding aquifer protection and management of groundwater resources.