234-11 Investigating Subsurface Features Between Two Adjacent Variably Disappearing Streams Using ERT

Session: Advance Ground Surface Modeling for Hydrological and Environmental Applications

Presenting Author:

Authors:

Abstract:

Carbonate bedrock with disappearing streams and surface depressions is indicative of karst terrain and the potential for significant subsurface water flow through conduits. The East and West Branch of Harbor Brook near Syracuse, NY are separated by approximately 70 m at their closest stretch. Yet, the East Branch is about 10 m higher than the West Branch and transitions to a disappearing stream more quickly after spring thaw and rain events than the West Branch. We investigated the potential for subsurface connection between the two branches before they merge downstream on the surface. The morphology of the streams indicates a structural control for at least part of their lengths, and several surface depressions between the branches suggest underground voids that collapsed. We used electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to image the subsurface to search for potential connections between the branches. Our findings indicate there is a fault and areas of concentrated subsurface water flow during parts of the year, suggestive of conduits. Preferential flow through conduits has implications for potential groundwater contamination from septic systems or hazardous waste spills in areas where these rock units are found.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-9749

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