U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has been conducting research in the region for well over 100 years. Over those years they have collected a lot of data, published many reports, and created many maps, databases, and online tools and viewers.
The USGS first published about the Memphis Sand Aquifer and the breaches (or windows) in the overlying confining unit all the way back in 1990 (Parks, 1990). You could say that they were the geologists in Memphis and Shelby County that put 2 and 2 together regard our unique geology and issues with contamination. So we tip our hat to the USGS for getting things started and laying down a good foundation for us to build upon.
The USGS continues to be active in the area monitoring groundwater levels and our streams, taking water quality samples, running geophysical surveys, and providing their expertise and tools to our local researchers and utilities.
USGS Water Data for the Nation - Water quality and quantity data for the entire U.S. including surface water, groundwater, springs, etc.
Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP) Regional Water Availability Study - This study looks at water availability in the upper-most aquifer in the region supplying water, over 9 billion gallons per day for agriculture, to parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and a very tiny portion to Tennessee.
USGS TOPOVIEW - View and download current and historical topographic maps at the click of a button.
USGS National Geologic Map Database - If you love geology, maps, and topography, this is your place to be.
