HYDROGEOLOGIC CHARACTERIZATION OF A SPRING COMPLEX IN KINGFIELD, MAINE

The 2004 identification of a complex of springs located in the glacial outwash valley of the West Branch of the Carrabassett River in Kingfield, Maine began a multi-year effort to investigate geologic and hydrogeologic conditions associated with the springs, determine their sustainable yield and assess the potential for development as a source for bottled spring water. The success of the study findings led to the design and installation of four boreholes for pumping spring water, permitting through local, state and federal regulatory entities and implementation of an extensive monitoring program to ensure sustainable use. This paper presents a case study describing the spring site and the methodology used during the hydrogeologic investigation. Data gathered during the evaluation include components in the overall water balance for the local and regional groundwater system. These data were used to determine recharge areas, safe yield of the spring water boreholes and interrelationships between the boreholes and spring flow. A detailed system of groundwater, stream flow and biological monitoring was established to develop a thorough database of baseline conditions prior to startup and to operate the boreholes for sustainable water use under future recharge conditions.