GIS-based analysis of spring occurrence and spring source areas in Peace River Regional District, British Columbia

Springs in the Peace River Regional District are important fresh water sources for domestic and industrial use, however, little is known about their hydrogeology. This study investigated the controls on spring occurrence and delineated the spring source areas (SSA). Samples from 36 springs were collected and analyzed for chemical and isotopic composition. The chemistry suggested 20 Quaternary and 16 Bedrock aquifer sourced springs. A GIS-based multi-criteria decision analysis integrated spring-related factors (slope, curvature, hydrogeological features, topographic wetness index, surficial geology, and drift thickness) to produce maps showing the likelihood for occurrence of Quaternary or Bedrock-sourced springs. There was a ~70% success rate for correctly identifying sources of the sampled springs. A GIS-based tool was applied to determine topographic SSA’s for 33 springs with varying degrees of success. Although both the maps and SSAs contain uncertainty, there is sufficient information to support decision-making in water resource protection and management.