Evaluation of the Hydrologic System and Selected Water-Management Alternatives in the Owens Valley, California

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HYDROLOGIC SYSTEM

The hydrologic system of the Owens Valley can be conceptualized as having three parts: (1) an unsaturated zone affected by precipitation and evapotranspiration; (2) a surface-water system composed of the Owens River, the Los Angeles Aqueduct, tributary streams, canals, ditches, and ponds; and (3) a saturated ground-water system contained in the valley fill.

The following evaluation identifies key components of the hydrologic system, describes their interaction, and quantifies their spatial and temporal variations. Discussion of the unsaturated zone is limited to precipitation and evapotranspiration. The evaluation also includes the interaction between the hydrologic system, much of which has been altered by human activity, and the native vegetation; this interaction is the subject of recent controversy and litigation.

Precipitation and Evapotranspiration

Surface-Water System

Ground-Water System