Relationship between Arid Geomorphic Settings and Unsaturated Zone Flow: Case Study, Chihuahuan Desert, Texas

Because geomorphic features can readily be mapped, our ability to characterize unsaturated flow over large areas would be greatly enhanced if relationships between geomorphic settings and unsaturated flow could be identified. The purpose of this study was to evaluate relationships between geomorphic settings and spatial and temporal variability in unsaturated flow at a field site in the Chihuahuan Desert of Texas. This study differs from most previous studies in the variety of geomorphic settings examined, including drainage areas (Blanca Draw and Grayton Lake playa) and interdrainage areas (basin-fill deposits, eolian sheets, alluvial fans, and a fissure), density of data (approximately 50 sampled boreholes, 3 to 31 m deep), and variety of techniques (physical, chemical, and electromagnetic) used to quantify unsaturated flow.