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Description
The crystalline rock complex of the Laguna Mountains in east-central San Diego County provides a reservoir for groundwater. The lack of knowledge concerning this groundwater system has led to problems arising from groundwater withdrawals by man. Springs represent natural discharge from the groundwater system. It is believed, therefore, that the study of springs should shed light on groundwater circulation. During the period October, 1973 through May, 1976, twenty-three springs and streams in the Mount Laguna area were monitored on a monthly basis. The results of this study are presented in this paper. Observable physical parameters that affect the regional hydrology at Mount Laguna are discussed. Analyses of geologic, climatic, and botanical data define their roles in the recharge, circulation, and discharge of groundwater. On the basis of such data, estimates of groundwater recharge are made, using various methods. Spring discharges and water conductivity characteristics are discussed. From these data three basic types of springs have been recognized, based upon mode of occurrence: depression springs, those that originate where erosion has intercepted the water table; contact springs, those that originate frolo bedrock contacts; and bedrock artesian springs, those that originate as groundwater rising from the crystalline bedrock. Analyses from those basic types of springs and their subdivisions show particular characteristics indicative of that particular groundwater system. The final interpretation of groundwater discharge data in conjunction with information on the regional hydrology provides a detailed picture of the groundwater system.
