Data are contiguous, topologically correct polygons as built and enforced using ArcGIS software.
No effort was made to ensure continuity of features with existing data in adjacent study areas.
Watershed delineation:
Watersheds were delineated based on the Hydrologic Unit Code Watersheds of Alberta level 8 watersheds (HUC8).
Recharge:
As depression-focussed recharge is the dominant recharge mechanism on the Canadian Prairies, a method incorporating terrain analysis, identification of upland and depression characteristics, and simulation of surface runoff into depressions was used to estimate recharge throughout southern Alberta.
Discharge:
For this study, actual desired values of discharge are not available, therefore, values were assumed. These values can be modified to be site specific, depending on the hydrogeological system, environmental needs, and desires of the community. In a steady-state, closed basin, inputs are equal to outputs; therefore, the natural discharge rate in each HUC8 watershed was assumed to be equivalent to recharge. Two PSY values are calculated to illustrate how it will fall on the continuum. The first was a scenario where 90% of natural discharge was desired to remain in the system. The second scenario was in the middle where 50% of natural discharge was desired. These two scenarios are equivalent to assuming that pumping (P) represents 10% and 50% of the simulated recharge for the PSY class.
Volume:
Aquifer volumes to a depth of 150 m below ground surface were estimated from the AGS's 3D Provincial Geological Framework Model of Alberta.