Aquifers
Alluvial Aquifers
The state’s alluvial aquifers interact closely with associated surface water flows. In high mountain catchments, groundwater contributes to streamflow when it is discharged from springs and seeps along “gaining” stream reaches. Further downstream, the flow of water may be reversed and the stream may recharge an associated alluvial aquifer in a “losing” reach. In many cases, gaining and losing reaches alternate along the same streambed depending on the relative elevations of groundwater and streamflow and local geologic conditions.
Bedrock Aquifers
Bedrock aquifers receive recharge at their outcrops on the basin margins from direct precipitation and infiltrating streamflows. The state’s shallow bedrock aquifers produce freshwater close to their recharge areas. Frequently, the same aquifer produces oil and gas from petroleum reservoirs deeper in the basins where the groundwater is more saline and unsuitable for drinking and agriculture. Wells that draw from the shallow margin bedrock aquifers can be artesian, flowing artesian, or water table wells.
Additional Information
Online water and climate data for Wyoming, and links to drought and snowpack data. Sponsored by the Wyoming Water Development Commission.
Wyoming Water Development Commission
Agency information, Wyoming Water Planning Program, research projects and funding, publications, water development projects, and public comment.
Wyoming State Engineer's Office
Groundwater regulations, forms, water well construction requirements, monitoring network information, surface water information and data, and water rights data.
Data, programs and publications on groundwater, aquifers and wells; Information on quality of water resources, and USGS water science glossary and hydrologic definitions.
National Ground Water Association
Website for groundwater professionals, professional services and resources, research and journal publications, advocacy, and educational and public service information.
Contact:
Kurt Hinaman, kurt.hinaman@wyo.gov