Investigation of fast groundwater responses and groundwater – surface water
interactions
Analysis of water flow pathways from groundwater to streams is essential for the optimal protection
of water resources as well as for eco-hydrological studies. This study addresses groundwater flow
processes at a hillslope and near-stream shallow groundwater system in the Black Forest Mountains,
southwestern Germany. The changing spatial and temporal flow patterns during differing hydrological
situations were examined using a combined hydraulic, hydrochemical and geophysical approach.
At a groundwater test site 12 wells were installed and the discharge at a near-stream saturated area
as well as several natural tracers (deuterium, dissolved silica, and major anions and cations) were
observed at different locations during high and low flows. In addition, geoelectrical measurements
(2-D resistivity mapping) were performed along several transects. The importance of the groundwater
component during flood formation was clearly demonstrated. In addition, groundwater-surface water
interactions are a special stream reach was explored.

Key publications:

  • Uhlenbrook S., Hoeg S., 2003: Quantifying uncertainties in tracer-based hydrograph separations -
    A case study for two, three and five component hydrograph separations in a mountainous catchment.
    Hydrological Processes, Volume 17, Issue 2, 431-453.
  • Wenninger J. Uhlenbrook S., Tilch J., Leibundgut Ch. 2003: Experimental evidences of fast
    groundwater responses in a hillslope / floodplain area. Hydrological Processes, in review.
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