Oklahoma comprehensive water plan report on the Southeast Watershed Planning Region

              75
BASIN 5
Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Data & Analysis
Southeast Watershed Planning Region
Basin 576 Southeast Regional Report Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
BASIN 5
Basin 5 accounts for about 16% of the current water demand in the Southeast Watershed Planning Region. About 80% of the basin’s 2010 demand is from the Thermoelectric Power demand sector. Municipal and Industrial is the second largest demand sector at 10%. Surface water satisfies about 90% of the current demand in the basin. Groundwater satisfies about 10% of the current demand (1% alluvial and 9% bedrock). The peak summer month total water demand in Basin 5 is about 1.2 times the winter monthly demand, which is less pronounced than the overall statewide pattern.
The flow in the Kiamichi River downstream of Gates Creek is typically greater than 26,000 AF/month throughout the year and greater than about 77,000 AF/month in the winter and spring. However, the river can have periods of low flow in the summer and fall. Hugo Lake was constructed on the Kiamichi River by the Corps of Engineers in 1974 and contains 47,600 AF of water supply storage for a dependable yield of 64,960 AFY and an
Current Demand by Source and Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Total Demand
9,150 AFY
Basin 5 Summary
Synopsis
Water users are expected to continue to rely mainly on Hugo Lake and surface water.   
Alluvial groundwater storage depletions may occur by 2060, but will be minimal in   size relative to aquifer storage in the basin. However, localized groundwater storage depletions may cause adverse effects for users.
Hugo Lake is capable of providing dependable water supplies to its existing users, and   with new infrastructure, could be used to meet all of Basin 5’s future surface water demand during periods of low streamflow.
To reduce the risk of adverse impacts on water supplies, it is recommended that   storage depletions be decreased where economically feasible.
Additional conservation could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions.   Increased reliance on the Antlers aquifer could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions or localized surface water gaps from users without access to Hugo Lake.
Water Resources
Southeast Region, Basin 5Southeast Regional Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Report 77
BASIN 5could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions. Temporary drought management activities could also mitigate storage depletions, but may not be needed if minor aquifer storage continues to provide supplies during droughts.
Out-of-basin supplies could mitigate groundwater storage depletions. The OCWP Reservoir Viability Study, which evaluated the potential for reservoirs throughout the state, identified five potentially viable out-of-basin sites in the region. However, in light of the small size and very low probability of storage depletions and the unpermitted yield of Hugo Lake, out-of-basin supplies may not be cost-effective
Reallocation of water quality storage to water supply at Hugo Lake or new reservoir storage could be used to meet all of Basin 5’s future demand during periods of low streamflow. The entire increase in demand from 2010 to 2060 could be supplied by a new river diversion and 1,900 AF of reservoir storage at the basin outlet.
Increased reliance on surface water supplies through direct diversions, without reservoir storage, will increase surface water gaps and is not recommended.
Increased reliance on the Antlers aquifer could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions or localized surface water gaps from users who do not have access to Hugo Lake.
Current groundwater rights in the basin are from the Antlers major bedrock aquifer, which underlies about 84% of the basin, contains over 4 million AF of storage in the basin, and receives about 13,000 AFY of recharge from Basin 5. Domestic users do not require a permit and may be obtaining supplies from minor alluvial aquifers in the basin. The use of groundwater to meet in-basin demand is not expected to be limited by the availability of permits through 2060. There are no significant basin-wide groundwater quality issues.
The projected 2060 water demand of 15,010 AFY in Basin 5 reflects a 5,860 AFY increase (64%) over the 2010 demand. The majority of the demand and growth in demand over the period will be in the Thermoelectric Power demand sector.
Gaps & Depletions
Based on projected demand and historical hydrology, alluvial groundwater storage depletions may occur by 2060. Surface water gaps and bedrock groundwater storage depletions are not expected through 2060. Hugo Lake is capable of providing dependable water supplies to its existing users and, with new infrastructure, could be used to meet all of the basin’s future surface water demand during periods of low streamflow. Alluvial groundwater storage depletions in Basin 5 have a low probability (7%) of occurring in the summer and will be small (20 AFY) on a basin-scale. Future alluvial groundwater withdrawals are expected to occur from minor aquifers; therefore, localized storage depletions may adversely affect well yields, water quality, and/or pumping costs.
Options
Water users are expected to continue to rely primarily on surface water supplies. To reduce the risk of adverse impacts to the basin’s water users, storage depletions should be decreased where economically feasible.
Moderately expanded permanent conservation activities in the Municipal and Industrial and Self-Supplied Residential demand sectors
additional 73,900 AF of water quality storage with a dependable yield of 100,800 AFY. The majority of the water rights are currently held by Hugo Municipal Authority for public water supply and Western Farmers Electric Coop for power generation. The lake has about 9,768 AFY of unpermitted water supply yield that could be used to meet future demands. The availability of permits is not expected to limit the development of surface water supplies for in-basin use through 2060. Relative to other basins in the state, the surface water quality in Basin 5 is considered good.
Water Supply Option Effectiveness
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Demand Management
Out-of-Basin Supplies
Reservoir Use
Increasing Supply from Surface Water
Increasing Supply from Groundwater
nTypically EffectivenPotentially EffectivenLikely IneffectivenNo Option Necessary
Water Supply Limitations
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Surface Water
Alluvial Groundwater
Bedrock Groundwater
nMinimalnPotentialnSignificant
Median Historical Streamflow
at the Basin Outlet
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Projected Water Demand
Southeast Region, Basin 578 Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Surface Water Resources
Historical streamflow from 1950 through • 2007 was used to estimate the range of future surface water supplies. The Kiamichi River downstream of Gates Creek had a period of below-average streamflow in the 1960s. From the early 1990s through the early 2000s, the basin went through a prolonged period of above-average streamflow and precipitation, demonstrating the hydrologic variability in the basin.
The range of historical streamflow at the • basin outlet is shown by the average, median and minimum streamflow over a 58-year period of record. The median flow in the Kiamichi River downstream of Gates Creek is greater than 22,000 AF/month throughout the year and greater than about 77,000 AF/month in the winter and spring. However, the river can have periods of low flow in the summer and fall. Relative to other basins in the state, the surface water quality in Basin 5 is considered good.
Hugo Lake is operated by the U.S. Army • Corps of Engineers and provides about 100,800 AFY of water quality yield and 64,900 AFY of dependable water supply yield. The lake has about 2,600 AFY of unpermitted water supply yield that could be used to meet future demands.
BASIN 5
Monthly Historical Streamflow at the Basin Outlet
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Historical Precipitation
Regional Climate Division
Historical Streamflow at the Basin Outlet
Southeast Region, Basin 5
nPrimarily Measured Flows
nMeasured/Synthesized Flows
nSignificant Synthesized Flows
Streamflow Data Source
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Basin 5 Data & AnalysisOklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis 79
BASIN 5
Groundwater Resources - Aquifer Summary (2010)
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Aquifer
Portion of Basin Overlaying Aquifer
Current Groundwater Rights
Aquifer Storage in Basin
Equal Proportionate Share
Groundwater Available for New Permits
Name
Type
Class1
Percent
AFY
AF
AFY/Acre
AFY
Antlers
Bedrock
Major
84%
3,800
4,386,000
2.1
421,200
Red River
Alluvial
Major
11%
0
82,000
temporary 2.0
51,200
Kiamichi
Bedrock
Minor
14%
0
43,000
temporary 2.0
64,000
Woodbine
Bedrock
Minor
30%
0
1,094,000
temporary 2.0
140,800
Non-Delineated Groundwater Source
Bedrock
Minor
N/A
0
N/A
temporary 2.0
N/A
Non-Delineated Groundwater Source
Alluvial
Minor
N/A
0
N/A
temporary 2.0
N/A
1 Bedrock aquifers with typical yields greater than 50 gpm and alluvial aquifers with typical yields greater than 150 gpm are considered major.
Groundwater Resources
For Basin 5, groundwater rights total • 3,800 in the Antlers aquifer. The Antlers aquifer underlies about 84% of the basin, has more than 4.3 million AF of storage, and receives about 13,000 AFY of recharge.
There are no significant groundwater • quality issues in Basin 5.80 Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Total Demand by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Planning Horizon
Crop Irrigation
Livestock
Municipal & Industrial
Oil & Gas
Self-Supplied Industrial
Self-Supplied Residential
Thermoelectric Power
Total
AFY
2010
290
390
950
0
90
130
7,300
9,150
2020
340
400
1,010
0
100
140
8,150
10,140
2030
390
400
1,050
0
100
140
9,090
11,170
2040
430
400
1,100
0
100
140
10,140
12,310
2050
470
400
1,160
0
100
150
11,310
13,590
2060
530
400
1,210
0
100
150
12,620
15,010
Water Demand
Basin 5’s water needs are about 16% of • the demand in the Southeast Watershed Planning Region and will increase by 64% (5,860 AFY) from 2010 to 2060. The majority of the demand and growth in demand over the period will be in the Thermoelectric Power demand sector.
Surface water is used to meet 90% of • total demands in the basin and its use will increase by 65% (5,360 AFY) from 2010 to 2060. The majority of the surface water use and growth in surface water use over the period will be in the Thermoelectric Power demand sector.
Alluvial groundwater is used to meet • 1% of total demands in the basin and represents demands from Self-Supplied Residential water use. Alluvial groundwater use will increase by 14% (20 AFY) from 2010 to 2060.
Bedrock groundwater is used to meet • 9% of total demands in the basin and its use will increase by 58% (480 AFY) from 2010 to 2060. The majority of the bedrock groundwater use and growth in bedrock groundwater use over the period will be in the Thermoelectric Power demand sector.
BASIN 5
Alluvial Groundwater Demand
by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Bedrock Groundwater Demand
by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Surface Water Demand
by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 5
nThermoelectric Power nSelf-Supplied Residential nSelf-Supplied Industrial nOil & Gas nMunicipal & Industrial nLivestock nCrop IrrigationOklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis 81
BASIN 5
Current Monthly Demand Distribution by Sector
The Municipal and Industrial and Self-• Supplied Residential demand sectors typically use 52% more water in the summer months than in winter months. Crop Irrigation has a high demand in summer months and little or no demand in winter months. Thermoelectric Power has relatively consistent demand throughout the year, except March and April when there is less demand. Other demand sectors will have a more consistent demand throughout the year.
Current Monthly Demand Distribution by Source
The peak summer month total water • demand in Basin 5 is about 1.2 times the winter monthly demand, which is less pronounced than the overall statewide pattern. Surface water use in the peak summer month is about 1.1 times the monthly winter use. Monthly alluvial groundwater use peaks in the summer at about 1.6 times the winter use. Monthly bedrock groundwater use peaks in the summer at about 1.3 times the monthly winter use.
Monthly Demand Distribution by Source (2010)
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Monthly Demand Distribution
by Sector (2010)
Southeast Region, Basin 582 Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Gaps and Storage Depletions
Based on projected demand and historical • hydrology, alluvial groundwater storage depletions may occur by 2060. Surface water gaps and bedrock groundwater storage depletions are not expected.
Alluvial groundwater storage depletions • in Basin 5 have a low probability (7%) of occurring in the summer. Alluvial groundwater storage depletions in 2060 will be small in size (20 AF/month); however, storage depletions may represent the entire alluvial groundwater demand. Future alluvial groundwater withdrawals are expected to occur from non-delineated minor aquifers. The severity of the storage depletions cannot be evaluated due to insufficient data. Localized storage depletions may adversely affect yields, water quality, and/or pumping costs.
Magnitude and Probability
of Annual Gaps and Storage Depletions
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Planning Horizon
Maximum Gaps/Storage Depletions
Probability of Gaps/Storage Depletions
Surface Water
Alluvial Groundwater
Bedrock Groundwater
Surface Water
Alluvial Groundwater
AFY
Percent
2020
0
0
0
0%
0%
2030
0
0
0
0%
0%
2040
0
0
0
0%
0%
2050
0
0
0
0%
0%
2060
0
20
0
0%
7%
Alluvial Groundwater Storage Depletions
by Season (2060 Demands)
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Months (Season)
Maximum Storage Depletion1
Median Storage Depletion
Probability
AF/month
AF/month
Percent
Dec-Feb (Winter)
0
0
0%
Mar-May (Spring)
0
0
0%
Jun-Aug (Summer)
10
10
7%
Sep-Nov (Fall)
0
0
0%
1 Amount shown represents largest amount for any one month in season indicated.
Surface Water Gaps
by Season (2060 Demands)
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Months (Season)
Maximum Gap 1
Median Gap
Probability
AF/month
AF/month
Percent
Dec-Feb (Winter)
0
0
0%
Mar-May (Spring)
0
0
0%
Jun-Aug (Summer)
0
0
0%
Sep-Nov (Fall)
0
0
0%
1 Amount shown represents largest amount for any one month in season indicated.
Bedrock Groundwater Storage Depletions by Season (2060 Demands)
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Months (Season)
Average Storage Depletion1
AF/month
Dec-Feb (Winter)
0
Mar-May (Spring)
0
Jun-Aug (Summer)
0
Sep-Nov (Fall)
0
1 Amount shown represents largest amount for any one month in season indicated.
BASIN 5Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis 83
BASIN 5
Reliable Diversions Based on Available Streamflow and New Reservoir Storage
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Reservoir Storage
Diversion
AF
AFY
100
300
500
1,600
1,000
3,100
2,500
7,100
5,000
12,100
Required Storage to Meet Growth in Demand (AF)
1,900
Required Storage to Meet Growth in Surface Water Demand (AF)
1,700
Reducing Water Needs
Through Conservation
Southeast Region, Basin 5
Conservation Activities1
2060 Gap/Storage Depletion
2060 Gap/Storage Depletion Probability
Surface Water
Alluvial GW
Bedrock GW
Surface Water
Alluvial GW
AFY
Percent
Existing Conditions
0
20
0
0%
7%
Moderately Expanded Conservation in Crop Irrigation Water Use
0
20
0
0%
7%
Moderately Expanded Conservation in M&I Water Use
0
0
0
0%
0%
Moderately Expanded Conservation in Crop Irrigation and M&I Water Use
0
0
0
0%
0%
Substantially Expanded Conservation in Crop Irrigation and M&I Water Use
0
0
0
0%
0%
1 Conservation Activities are documented in the OCWP Demand Forecast Report.
Water Supply Options & Effectiveness
Demand Management
nModerately expanded permanent conservation activities in the Municipal and Industrial and Self-Supplied Residential demand sectors could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions. Temporary drought management activities could also mitigate storage depletions, but may not be needed if minor aquifer storage continues to provide supplies during droughts.
Out-of-Basin Supplies
nOut-of-basin supplies could mitigate groundwater storage depletions. The OCWP Reservoir Viability Study, which evaluated the potential for reservoirs throughout the state, identified five potentially viable out-of-basin sites in the region: Caney Mountain in Basin 3 and Buck Creek, Finley, Kellond and Tuskahoma in Basin 6. However, in light of the small size and very low probability of storage depletions and the unpermitted yield of Hugo Lake, out-of-basin supplies may not be cost-effective.
Reservoir Use
nReallocation of water quality storage to water supply at Hugo Lake or new reservoir storage could be used to meet all of Basin 5’s future demand during periods of low streamflow. The entire increase in demand from 2010 to 2060 could be supplied by a river diversion and 1,900 AF of reservoir storage at the basin outlet. The use of multiple reservoirs in the basin or reservoirs upstream of the basin outlet may increase the size of storage necessary to mitigate storage depletions.
Increasing Reliance on Surface Water
nIncreased reliance on surface water through direct diversions, without reservoir storage, could create surface water gaps and is not recommended.
Increasing Reliance on Groundwater
nIncreased reliance on the Antlers aquifer could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions or localized surface water gaps from users without access to Hugo Lake.
nTypically Effective
nPotentially Effective
nLikely Ineffective
nNo Option NecessaryBASIN 585
BASIN 6
Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Data & Analysis
Southeast Watershed Planning Region
Basin 686 Southeast Regional Report Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
BASIN 6
Basin 6 accounts for about 7% of the current water demand in the Southeast Watershed Planning Region. About 38% of the basin’s demand is from the Municipal and Industrial demand sector. Crop Irrigation is the second largest demand sector at 30% and is followed closely by the Livestock sector at 24% of the total demand. Surface water satisfies about 89% of the current demand in the basin. Groundwater satisfies about 11% of the demand (7% alluvial and 4% bedrock). The peak summer month total water demand in Basin 6 is about 3 times the winter monthly demand, which is similar to the overall statewide pattern.
The flow in the Kiamichi River near Belzoni is typically greater than 17,900 AF/month throughout the year and greater than about 60,000 AF/month in the winter and spring. However, the river can have periods of low flow in the summer and fall. Sardis Lake was constructed in 1983 on Jackfork Creek by the Corps of Engineers for water supply, flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife mitigation purposes. The reservoir contains 274,209 AF of water supply storage with a dependable yield of 156,800 AFY. The lake currently has substantial unpermitted yield,
Current Demand by Source and Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Total Demand
4,240 AFY
Basin 6 Summary
Synopsis
Water users are expected to continue to rely mainly on Sardis Lake and surface water.   
Alluvial groundwater storage depletions may occur by 2030, but will be minimal in   size relative to aquifer storage in the basin. However, localized storage depletions may cause adverse effects for users.
Sardis Lake is capable of providing dependable water supplies to its existing users,   and with new infrastructure, could be used to meet all of Basin 6’s future surface water demand during periods of low streamflow.
To reduce the risk of adverse impacts on water supplies, it is recommended that   groundwater storage depletions be decreased where economically feasible.
Additional conservation could reduce alluvial groundwater storage depletions.  
Use of additional groundwater supplies and/or developing new small reservoirs could   mitigate localized surface water gaps for users without access to major reservoirs without having major impacts to groundwater storage.
Water Resources
Southeast Region, Basin 6Southeast Regional Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Report 87
BASIN 6
but pending permit applications are on file for all available remaining yield from the lake. Carl Albert Lake provides water supplies to the City of Talihina. The water supply yield of this lake is unknown; therefore, the ability of this reservoir to provide future water supplies could not be evaluated. The availability of permits is not expected to limit the development of surface water supplies for in-basin use through 2060. Relative to other basins in the state, the surface water quality in Basin 6 is considered good.
There are 500 AFY of groundwater rights in Basin 6, including 300 AFY of rights in the Antlers major bedrock aquifer, 100 AFY in the Kiamichi minor bedrock aquifer, and 100 AF of
Median Historical Streamflow
at the Basin Outlet
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Projected Water Demand
Southeast Region, Basin 6water rights in non-delineated minor alluvial aquifers. The Antlers aquifer has over 1 million AF of storage in the basin and receives about 9,000 AFY of recharge from Basin 6. Site-specific information on the suitability of minor aquifers for supply should be considered before large-scale use. Domestic users do not require a permit and are assumed to be obtaining supplies from minor alluvial aquifers in the basin. The use of groundwater to meet in-basin demand is not expected to be limited by the availability of permits through 2060. There are no significant basin-wide groundwater quality issues.
The projected 2060 water demand of 6,130 AFY reflects a 1,890 AFY increase (44%) over the 2010 demand. The majority of the demand and the largest growth in demand over the period will be in the Municipal and Industrial demand sector. There will also be significant growth in demand from 2010 to 2060 in the Crop Irrigation and Oil and Gas demand sectors.
Gaps & Depletions
Based on projected demand and historical hydrology, alluvial groundwater storage depletions may occur by 2030. Surface water gaps and bedrock groundwater storage depletions are not expected through 2060. Sardis Lake is capable of providing dependable water supplies to its existing users and, with new infrastructure, could be used to meet all of the basin’s future surface water demand during periods of low streamflow. However, the availability of supplies from Sardis Lake may be restricted in the future by pending permit applications. Alluvial groundwater storage depletions in Basin 6 have a low probability (10%) of occurring in the summer and fall and will be small (40 AFY in 2060) on a basin-scale. Future alluvial groundwater withdrawals are expected to occur from minor aquifers. Therefore, localized storage depletions may adversely affect well yields, water quality, and/or pumping costs.
Options
Water users are expected to continue to rely primarily on surface water supplies. To reduce the risk of adverse impacts to the basin’s water users, groundwater storage depletions should be decreased where economically feasible.
Moderately expanded permanent conservation activities in the Municipal and Industrial and Crop Irrigation demand sectors could reduce alluvial groundwater storage depletions. Temporary drought management activities could also mitigate storage depletions, but may not be needed if minor aquifer storage continues to provide supplies during droughts.
Out-of-basin supplies could mitigate groundwater storage depletions. The OCWP Reservoir Viability Study, which evaluated the potential for reservoirs throughout the state, identified one potentially viable out-of-basin site in the region. However, in light of the small size and very low probability of storage depletions, out-of-basin supplies may not be cost-effective for many users in the basin.
New reservoir storage could be used to meet all of the Basin 6 future demand during periods of
Water Supply Option Effectiveness
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Demand Management
Out-of-Basin Supplies
Reservoir Use
Increasing Supply from Surface Water
Increasing Supply from Groundwater
nTypically EffectivenPotentially EffectivenLikely IneffectivenNo Option Necessary
Water Supply Limitations
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Surface Water
Alluvial Groundwater
Bedrock Groundwater
nMinimalnPotentialnSignificantlow streamflow. The entire increase in demand from 2010 to 2060 could be supplied by a new river diversion and 600 AF of reservoir storage at the basin outlet. The OCWP Reservoir Viability Study identified four potentially viable sites in Basin 6.
Increased reliance on surface water supplies through direct diversions, without reservoir storage, could create surface water gaps and is not recommended.
Increased reliance on the Antlers aquifer could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions or localized surface water gaps from users without access to reservoirs, but the aquifer only underlies a small portion of the basin. Site-specific information on the suitability of minor aquifers for supply should be considered before increased reliance on these supplies for large-scale use.88 Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Surface Water Resources
Historical streamflow from 1950 through • 2007 was used to estimate the range of future surface water supplies. The Kiamichi River near Belzoni had a period of below-average streamflow in the 1960s. From the early 1990s through the early 2000s, the basin went through a prolonged period of above-average streamflow and precipitation, demonstrating the hydrologic variability in the basin.
The range of historical streamflow at the basin • outlet is shown by the average, median and minimum streamflow over a 58-year period of record. The median flow in the Kiamichi River near Belzoni is greater than 17,900 AF/month throughout the year and greater than about 60,000 AF/month in the winter and spring. However, the river can have periods of low to no flow in the summer and fall. Relative to other basins in the state, the surface water quality in Basin 6 is considered good.
Sardis Lake is operated by the U.S. Army • Corps of Engineers and has approximately 156,800 AFY of dependable water supply yield. The lake currently has substantial unpermitted yield, but pending permit applications have been submitted for all available remaining yield from the lake. Carl Albert Lake provides water supplies to the City of Talihina. The water supply yield of this lake is unknown; therefore, the ability of this reservoir to provide future water supplies could not be evaluated.
BASIN 6
Monthly Historical Streamflow at the Basin Outlet
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Historical Streamflow at the Basin Outlet
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Historical Precipitation
Regional Climate Division
nPrimarily Measured Flows
nMeasured/Synthesized Flows
nSignificant Synthesized Flows
Streamflow Data Source
Southeast Region, Basin 3
Basin 6 Data & AnalysisOklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis 89
BASIN 6
Groundwater Resources - Aquifer Summary (2010)
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Aquifer
Portion of Basin Overlaying Aquifer
Current Groundwater Rights
Aquifer Storage in Basin
Equal Proportionate Share
Groundwater Available for New Permits
Name
Type
Class1
Percent
AFY
AF
AFY/Acre
AFY
Antlers
Bedrock
Major
7%
300
891,000
2.1
133,900
Kiamichi
Bedrock
Minor
84%
100
1,047,000
temporary 2.0
1,560,700
Pennsylvanian
Bedrock
Minor
6%
0
838,000
temporary 2.0
102,400
Potato Hills
Bedrock
Minor
2%
0
49,000
temporary 2.0
38,400
Non-Delineated Groundwater Source
Bedrock
Minor
N/A
0
N/A
temporary 2.0
N/A
Non-Delineated Groundwater Source
Alluvial
Minor
N/A
100
N/A
temporary 2.0
N/A
1 Bedrock aquifers with typical yields greater than 50 gpm and alluvial aquifers with typical yields greater than 150 gpm are considered major.
Groundwater Resources
For Basin 6, groundwater rights total • 300 AFY in the Antlers aquifer, 100 AFY in the Kiamichi aquifer, and 100 AFY of in non-delineated minor alluvial aquifers. The Antlers aquifer has 891,000 AF of storage in the basin and receives about 9,000 AFY of recharge. Site-specific information on the suitability of minor aquifers for supply should be considered before large-scale use.
There are no significant groundwater • quality issues in Basin 6.90 Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Total Demand by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Planning Horizon
Crop Irrigation
Livestock
Municipal & Industrial
Oil & Gas
Self-Supplied Industrial
Self-Supplied Residential
Thermoelectric Power
Total
AFY
2010
1,280
990
1,620
90
0
260
0
4,240
2020
1,370
1,000
1,760
160
0
280
0
4,570
2030
1,470
1,010
1,910
240
0
310
0
4,940
2040
1,560
1,010
2,070
330
0
330
0
5,300
2050
1,630
1,020
2,240
440
0
360
0
5,690
2060
1,740
1,030
2,410
570
0
380
0
6,130
Water Demand
Basin 6’s water needs are about 7% of • the demand in the Southeast Watershed Planning Region and will increase by 44% (1,890 AFY) from 2010 to 2060. The majority of the demand and the largest growth in demand over the period will be in the Municipal and Industrial demand sector. There will also be significant growth in demand from 2010 to 2060 in the Crop Irrigation and Oil and Gas demand sectors.
Surface water is used to meet 89% of • total demand in the basin and its use will increase by 45% (1,710 AFY) from 2010 to 2060. The majority of the surface water use and growth in surface water user over the period will be in the Municipal and Industrial demand sector.
Alluvial groundwater is used to meet • 7% of total demand in the basin and largely represents demand from Self-Supplied Residential water use. Alluvial groundwater use will increase by 43% (140 AFY) from 2010 to 2060.
Bedrock groundwater is used to meet • 4% of total demand in the basin and its use will increase by 24% (40 AFY) from 2010 to 2060. The majority of the bedrock groundwater use and growth in bedrock groundwater use over the period will be in the Crop Irrigation demand sector.
BASIN 6
Alluvial Groundwater Demand
by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Bedrock Groundwater Demand
by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Surface Water Demand
by Sector
Southeast Region, Basin 6
nThermoelectric Power nSelf-Supplied Residential nSelf-Supplied Industrial nOil & Gas nMunicipal & Industrial nLivestock nCrop IrrigationOklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis 91
BASIN 6
Current Monthly Demand Distribution by Sector
The Municipal and Industrial and Self-• Supplied Residential demand sectors typically use 52% more water in the summer months than in winter months. Crop Irrigation has a high demand in summer months and little or no demand in winter months. Other demand sectors will have a more consistent demand throughout the year.
Current Monthly Demand Distribution by Source
The peak summer month total water • demand in Basin 6 is about 3 times the monthly winter demand, which is similar to the overall statewide pattern. Surface water use in the peak summer month is about 3 times the monthly winter use. Monthly alluvial groundwater use peaks in the summer at about 2 times the monthly winter use. Monthly bedrock groundwater use peaks in the summer at about 6 times the winter use.
Monthly Demand Distribution
by Sector (2010)
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Monthly Demand Distribution by Source (2010)
Southeast Region, Basin 692 Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Gaps and Storage Depletions
Based on projected demand and historical • hydrology, alluvial groundwater storage depletions may occur by 2030. Surface water gaps and bedrock groundwater storage depletions are not expected through 2060.
With new infrastructure, Sardis Lake could • be used to meet all of the Basin 6 future surface water demand during periods of low streamflow. However, the availability of supplies from Sardis Lake may be restricted in the future by current permit applications.
Alluvial groundwater storage depletions in • Basin 6 may occur in the summer and fall. Alluvial groundwater storage depletions in 2060 will be up to 33% (20 AF/month) of the alluvial groundwater demand in the peak summer month and as much as 25% (10 AF/month) of the fall months’ alluvial groundwater demand.
Future alluvial groundwater withdrawals • are expected to occur from non-delineated minor aquifers. The severity of the storage depletions cannot be evaluated due to a lack of information. However, localized storage depletions may adversely affect yields, water quality, and/or pumping costs.
Magnitude and Probability
of Annual Gaps and Storage Depletions
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Planning Horizon
Maximum Gaps/Storage Depletions
Probability of Gaps/Storage Depletions
Surface Water
Alluvial Groundwater
Bedrock Groundwater
Surface Water
Alluvial Groundwater
AFY
Percent
2020
0
0
0
0%
0%
2030
0
10
0
0%
5%
2040
0
30
0
0%
9%
2050
0
30
0
0%
9%
2060
0
40
0
0%
10%
Alluvial Groundwater Storage Depletions
by Season (2060 Demands)
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Months (Season)
Maximum Storage Depletion1
Median Storage Depletion
Probability
AF/month
AF/month
Percent
Dec-Feb (Winter)
0
0
0%
Mar-May (Spring)
0
0
0%
Jun-Aug (Summer)
20
20
7%
Sep-Nov (Fall)
10
10
<1%
1 Amount shown represents largest amount for any one month in season indicated.
Surface Water Gaps
by Season (2060 Demands)
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Months (Season)
Maximum Gap 1
Median Gap
Probability
AF/month
AF/month
Percent
Dec-Feb (Winter)
0
0
0%
Mar-May (Spring)
0
0
0%
Jun-Aug (Summer)
0
0
0%
Sep-Nov (Fall)
0
0
0%
1 Amount shown represents largest amount for any one month in season indicated.
Bedrock Groundwater Storage Depletions by Season(2060 Demands)
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Months (Season)
Average Storage Depletion1
AF/month
Dec-Feb (Winter)
0
Mar-May (Spring)
0
Jun-Aug (Summer)
0
Sep-Nov (Fall)
0
1 Amount shown represents largest amount for any one month in season indicated.
BASIN 6Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Southeast Regional Report, Basin Data & Analysis 93
BASIN 6
Reliable Diversions Based on Available Streamflow and New Reservoir Storage
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Reservoir Storage
Diversion
AF
AFY
100
300
500
1,600
1,000
3,100
2,500
6,800
5,000
11,900
Required Storage to Meet Growth in Demand (AF)
600
Required Storage to Meet Growth in Surface Water Demand (AF)
500
Reducing Water Needs
Through Conservation
Southeast Region, Basin 6
Conservation Activities1
2060 Gap/Storage Depletion
2060 Gap/Storage Depletion Probability
Surface Water
Alluvial GW
Bedrock GW
Surface Water
Alluvial GW
AFY
Percent
Existing Conditions
0
40
0
0%
10%
Moderately Expanded Conservation in Crop Irrigation Water Use
0
40
0
0%
9%
Moderately Expanded Conservation in M&I Water Use
0
30
0
0%
9%
Moderately Expanded Conservation in Crop Irrigation and M&I Water Use
0
30
0
0%
9%
Substantially Expanded Conservation in Crop Irrigation and M&I Water Use
0
20
0
0%
7%
1 Conservation Activities are documented in the OCWP Demand Forecast Report.
Water Supply Options & Effectiveness
Demand Management
nModerately expanded permanent conservation activities in the Municipal and Industrial and Crop Irrigation demand sectors could reduce the size of alluvial groundwater storage depletions. Temporary drought management activities could also mitigate storage depletions, but may not be needed if minor aquifer storage continues to provide supplies during droughts.
Out-of-Basin Supplies
nOut-of-basin supplies could mitigate groundwater storage depletions. The OCWP Reservoir Viability Study, which evaluated the potential for reservoirs throughout the state, identified one potentially viable out-of-basin site in the region: Caney Mountain in Basin 3. However, in light of the small size and very low probability of storage depletions, out-of-basin supplies may not be cost-effective for many users in the basin.
Reservoir Use
nNew reservoir storage could be used to meet all of the Basin 6 future demand during periods of low streamflow. The entire increase in demand from 2010 to 2060 could be supplied by 600 AF of reservoir storage at the basin outlet. The OCWP Reservoir Viability Study identified four potentially viable sites in Basin 6 (Tuskahoma Lake, Finley Lake, Kellond Lake, and Buck Creek Lake). The use of multiple reservoirs in the basin or reservoirs upstream of the basin outlet may increase the size of storage necessary to mitigate storage depletions.
Increasing Reliance on Surface Water
nIncreased reliance on surface water through direct diversions, without reservoir storage, may create surface water gaps and is not recommended.
Increasing Reliance on Groundwater
nIncreased reliance on the Antlers aquifer could mitigate alluvial groundwater storage depletions or localized surface water gaps for users without access to reservoirs, but it only underlies a small portion of the basin. Site-specific information on the suitability of minor aquifers for supply should be considered before increased reliance on these supplies or large-scale use.
nTypically Effective
nPotentially Effective
nLikely Ineffective
nNo Option Necessary94 Central Regional Report
Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Glossary
ACRONYMS
AF: acre-foot or acre-feet
AFD: acre-feet per day
AFY: acre-feet per year
BMPs: best management practices
BOD: biochemical oxygen demand
cfs: cubic feet per second
CWAC: Cool Water Aquatic Community
CWSRF: Clean Water State Revolving Fund
DO: dissolved oxygen
DWSRF: Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
EPS: equal proportionate share
FACT: Funding Agency Coordinating Team
gpm: gallons per minute
HLAC: Habitat Limited Aquatic Community
HQW: High Quality Waters
HUC: hydrologic unit code
M&I: municipal and industrial
MAY: maximum annual yield
mgd: million gallons per day
μS/cm: microsiemens per centimeter (see specific conductivity)
mg/L: milligrams per liter
NLW: nutrient-limited watershed
NPS: nonpoint source
NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NRCS: Natural Resources Conservation Service
NTU: Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (see turbidity)
OCWP: Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
ODEQ: Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality
O&G: Oil and Gas
ORW: Outstanding Resource Water
OWQS: Oklahoma Water Quality Standards
OWRB: Oklahoma Water Resources Board
PBCR: Primary Body Contact Recreation
pH: hydrogen ion activity
ppm: parts per million
RD: Rural Development
REAP: Rural Economic Action Plan
SBCR: Secondary Body Contact Recreation
SDWIS: Safe Drinking Water Information System
SRF: State Revolving Fund
SSI: Self-supplied Industry
SSR: Self-supplied Residential
SWS: Sensitive Water Supply
TDS: Total Dissolved Solids
TMDL: Total Maximum Daily Load
TSI: Trophic State Index
TSS: Total Suspended Solids
USACE: United States Army Corps of Engineers
USEPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency
USGS: United States Geological Survey.
WLA: wasteload allocation
WWAC: Warm Water Aquatic Community
Water Quantity Conversion Factors
Desired Unit
Trace Down to meet Initial Unit Row
CFS
GPM
MGD
AFY
AFD
Initial Unit
Trace Across to meet
Desired Unit Column
CFS
-----
450
.646
724
1.98
GPM
.00222
-----
.00144
1.61
.00442
MGD
1.55
695
-----
1120
3.07
AFY
.0014
.62
.00089
-----
.00274
AFD
.504
226
.326
365
-----
EXAMPLE: To convert from initial value/unit, 140 MGD (million gallons per day) to desired unit, CFS (cubic feet per second), multiply 140 times 1.55 to come up with the desired conversion, 217 cfs. or: 140 X 1.55 = 217.
CFS - cubic feet per second
GPM - gallons per minute
MGD - millions gallons per day
AFY - acre-feet per year
AFD - acre-feet per day
1 acre-foot = 325,851 gallonsCentral Regional Report 95
Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
DEFINITIONS
A
Acre-foot: amount of water required to cover one acre to a depth of one foot: equivalent to 43,560 cubic feet or 325,851 gallons.
Agricultural use: water used for livestock, poultry, fish farms, fish hatcheries, veterinary services, feed lots, etc., but excluding irrigation use.
Alkalinity: measurement of the water’s ability to neutralize acids. It usually indicates the presence of carbonate, bicarbonates, or hydroxides. Waters that have high alkalinity values are considered undesirable because of excessive hardness and high concentrations of sodium salts. Waters with low alkalinity have little capacity to buffer acidic inputs and are susceptible to acidification (low pH).
Allocation: a measure of the amount of groundwater that may be lawfully produced from a groundwater basin. The allocation may be set by the Board (e.g., specified in a regular permit issued following the determination of the maximum annual yield and equal proportionate share for a basin), or by statute (e.g., 2 acre feet per acre of land over a basin for which the maximum annual yield and equal proportionate share have not been determined).
Alluvial aquifer: aquifer with porous media consisting of loose, unconsolidated sediments deposited by fluvial (river) or aeolian (wind) processes such as river beds, flood plains, dunes, and terraces.
Alluvial groundwater: fresh water found in an alluvial aquifer.
Alluvium: sediments of clay, silt, gravel, and or other unconsolidated material deposited over time by a flowing stream on its floodplain or delta; frequently associated with higher-lying terrace deposits of groundwater.
Ammonia (NH3): see Nitrogen.
Appendix B Areas: those waters of the state into which discharges may be limited and which are located within the boundaries of areas listed in Appendix B of OWRB rules Chapter 45 on Oklahoma’s water quality standards; including but not limited to the National and State parks, forests, wilderness areas, wildlife management areas, and wildlife refuges. Appendix B also may include those areas which are inhabited by federally listed, threatened, or endangered species, and other appropriate areas.
Application: formal request that may also be entitled a “petition” to the Board and the first step required by law or rule to acquire the right to perform or engage in activities regulated by the OWRB.
Appropriation: includes the process under Title 82 of the Oklahoma Statutes, Section 105.1 and following, by which an appropriative right to use stream water is acquired. An appropriation may also mean a vested right recognized through administrative adjudications conducted by the OWRB in the 1960s.
Appropriative right: right acquired under the procedure provided by law to take a specific quantity of public water, by direct diversion from a stream, an impoundment thereon, or a playa lake, and to apply such water to a specific beneficial use or uses.
Aquifer: geologic unit(s) or formation(s) that contain sufficient saturated, permeable material to yield economically significant quantities of water to wells and springs.
Artificial recharge: any man-made process specifically designed for the primary purpose of increasing the amount of water entering into an aquifer.
Attainable uses: best uses achievable for a particular waterbody given water of adequate quality. The process of use attainability analysis can, and in certain cases must, be used to determine attainable uses for a waterbody.
Average: number obtained by adding several quantities together and dividing the sum by the number of quantities, also known as the arithmetic mean.
B
Background: ambient condition upstream or upgradient from a facility, practice or activity which has not been affected by that facility, practice or activity.
Basin: geographic area drained by a single major stream; also called watershed, stream system, or drainage basin. For the purposes of the OCWP, the state of Oklahoma has been divided into 82 watershed basins.
Basin outlet: the furthest downstream geographic point in an OCWP planning basin.
Bedrock aquifer: aquifer with porous media consisting of lithified (semi-consolidated or consolidated) sediments such as limestone, sandstone, siltstone or any fractured crystalline rock. Examples include the Arbuckle-Simpson and the Rush Springs aquifers.
Bedrock groundwater: water found in a bedrock aquifer.
Beneficial use: (1) The use of such quantity of stream or groundwater when reasonable intelligence and diligence are exercised in its application for a lawful purpose and as is economically necessary for that purpose. Beneficial uses include but are not limited to municipal, industrial, agricultural, irrigation, recreation, fish and wildlife, etc., as defined in OWRB rules Chapter 20 on stream water use and Chapter 30 on groundwater use. (2) A classification in the Oklahoma’s water quality standards (OWQS) of the waters of the State, according to their best uses in the interest of the public set forth in OWRB rules Chapter 45 on OWQS.
Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD): quantifies the amount of dissolved oxygen utilized in the biochemical decomposition of organic material under specified conditions.
Board: the Oklahoma Water Resources Board authorized by law to make final adjudications, execute contracts, adopt rules and carry out other powers and duties set forth by law or, for duties authorized by law to be delegated to the Executive Director, any employee or agent or staff member thereof as assigned by the Executive Director.
C
Chloride: as a chloride ion (Cl-), one of the major inorganic anions in water and wastewater. Generally chlorides do not pose a health threat to humans, although high content may harm metallic pipes and structures and plant life. The average chloride concentration varies widely in Oklahoma with values of < 10 mg/L in southeastern Oklahoma to > 3,000 mg/L in the Cimarron and upper Red River watersheds.
Chlorophyll-a: primary photosynthetic plant pigment, which is used extensively to estimate phytoplankton (algae).
Clean Water SRF: fund or program created by Title 82 Oklahoma Statutes, Sections 1085.51 and following. Also see State Revolving Fund
Color: true color as well as apparent color. True color is the color of the water from which turbidity has been removed. Apparent color includes not only the color due to substances in solution (true color), but also that color due to suspended matter.
Commercial use: use which includes but is not limited to water for businesses, industrial parks, laundries, cafes, motels/hotels, institutions, food processing and water used in the transportation of metal ores and non-metals by pipelines.
Confluence: point at which two streams flow together and unite.
Conjunctive management: water management approach that takes into account the interactions between groundwaters and surface waters and how those interactions may affect water availability.96 Central Regional Report Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Glossary
Conservation: to protect from loss and waste. Conservation of water may mean to save or store water for later use.
Conservation pool: reservoir storage of water for the project’s authorized purpose other than flood control.
Consumptive use: use of water which diverts it from a water supply.
Cool Water Aquatic Community (CWAC): OWQS beneficial use designation; subcategory of the beneficial use category “Fish and Wildlife Propagation” where the water quality, water temperature and habitat are adequate to support cool water climax fish communities and includes an environment suitable for the full range of cool water benthos. Typical species may include smallmouth bass, certain darters and stoneflies.
D
Dam: any artificial barrier, together with appurtenant works, which does or may impound or divert water.
Dedicated land: tract or tracts of land which the applicant owns, leases, or from which the applicant holds a valid right to withdraw groundwater and which is listed in the application and used to calculate the amount of groundwater requested.
Definite stream: watercourse in a definite, natural channel, with defined beds and banks, originating from a definite source or sources of supply. The stream may flow intermittently or at irregular intervals if that is characteristic of the sources of supply in the area.
Degradation: any condition caused by the activities of humans which result in the prolonged impairment of any constituent of the aquatic environment.
Demand: amount of water required to meet the needs of people, communities, industry, agriculture, and other users.
Demand Forecast: estimate of expected water demands for a given planning horizon.
Demand management: adjusting use of water through temporary or permanent conservation measures to meet the water needs of the basin or region.
Demand sectors: seven distinct consumptive uses or demands upon the state’s waters as delineated in the OCWP: Thermoelectric Power, Self-Supplied Residential, Self-Supplied Industrial, Oil and Gas, Municipal and Industrial, Livestock, and Crop and Irrigation.
Dependable yield: The amount of water a reservoir can provide from storage is referred to as its yield. The dependable yield is considered the maximum amount of water a reservoir can dependably supply during critical drought periods. OCWP physical availability analyses considered the unused yield of existing reservoirs. Future potential reservoir storage was considered as a water supply option.
Depletions: the amount that future demand exceeds available recharge. These shortages can be due to physical supply, water rights, infrastructure, or water quality constraints.
Designated beneficial uses: those uses specified in the Oklahoma Water Quality Standards for each waterbody or segment whether or not they are being attained.
Diffused surface water: water that occurs, in its natural state, in places on the surface of the ground other than in a definite stream or lake or pond.
Direct Diversion: see Diversion.
Dissolved oxygen: The amount of oxygen gas dissolved in a given volume of water at a particular temperature and pressure, often expressed as a concentration in parts of oxygen per million parts of water. Dissolved oxygen is essential to aquatic life. It affects the solubility and availability of nutrients, and therefore the productivity of aquatic ecosystems. Low levels of dissolved oxygen facilitate the release of nutrients from the sediments.
Diversion: to take water from a stream or waterbody into a pipe, canal or other conduit, either by pumping or by gravity flow. It can also mean individually designed diversions across a hillside. They may be used to protect bottomland from hillside runoff, divert water away from active gullies, or protect buildings from runoff.
Domestic use: the use of water by a natural individual or by a family or household for household purposes, for farm and domestic animals up to the normal grazing capacity of the land whether or not the animals are actually owned by such natural individual or family, and for the irrigation of land not exceeding a total of three (3) acres in area for the growing of gardens, orchards, and lawns. Domestic use also includes:(1) the use of water for agriculture purposes by natural individuals, (2) use of water for fire protection, and (3) the use of water by non-household entities for drinking water purposes, restroom use, and the watering of lawns, provided that the amount of stream water used for any such purposes does not exceed five acre-feet per year.
Domestic water public utility: municipality, public trust, rural water district, or other public entity, organized under the laws of and having its principal place of business in the State of Oklahoma and existing at least in part for the purpose of providing water utility service to domestic, commercial and other consumers.
Drainage area: the area above the discharge drained by the receiving stream.
Drinking Water SRF: that fund or program created by Title 82 Oklahoma Statutes, Section 1085.71 and following. Also see State Revolving Fund.
Drinking Water Treatment Project: (1) Any engineering undertaking or work to control or develop drinking water treatment facilities of eligible entities for all useful and lawful purposes, (2) Any system necessary to improve or develop drinking water supply, treatment or distribution capabilities, or (3) Any implementation of water source protection programs as authorized by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act.
Drought Management: Those activities which conserve water in an attempt to best sustain a basin or region’s needs during times of less than normal recharge.
E
Ecoregion (ecological region): sometimes called a bioregion, an ecologically and geographically defined area. Ecoregions cover relatively large areas of land or water, and contain characteristic, geographically distinct assemblages of natural communities and species. The biodiversity of flora, fauna and ecosystems that characterise an ecoregion tends to be distinct from that of other ecoregions.
Effluent: any fluid emitted by a source to a stream, reservoir or a basin, including a partially or completely treated waste fluid that is produced by and flows out of an industrial or wastewater treatment plant or sewer.
Elevation (MSL): elevation in feet in relation to mean sea level. Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Central Regional Report 97
Enterococcus: bacteria that are passed through the fecal excrement of humans, livestock and wildlife. The bacteria can be found in the digestive tract of warm-blooded animals and aid in food digestion. EPA approves the use of enterococci as an indicator of potential pathogenic contamination in recreational bathing waters.
Equal proportionate share (EPS): portion of the maximum annual yield of water from a groundwater basin that is allocated to each acre of land overlying the basin or subbasin.
Escherichia coli (E. Coli): a type of pathogenic fecal coliform bacteria, and the most common facultative, disease-causing bacteria in the feces of warm-blooded animals. Most E. coli bacteria are harmless and are found in great quantities in the intestines of people and warm-blooded animals. Some strains, however, can cause illness. EPA approves the use of enterococci as an indicator of potential pathogenic contamination in recreational bathing waters.
Eutrophic: Abundant in nutrients and having high rates of productivity frequently resulting in oxygen depletion below the surface layer.
Eutrophication: the process whereby the condition of a waterbody changes from one of low biologic productivity and clear water to one of high productivity and water made turbid by the accelerated growth of algae.
Existing beneficial uses: those uses listed in Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 131.3 actually attained by a waterbody on or after November 28, 1975. These uses may include public water supplies, fish and wildlife propagation, recreational uses, agriculture, industrial water supplies, navigation, and aesthetics.
F
Fecal coliform: a group of organisms common to the intestinal tracts of humans and of animals. The presence of fecal coliform bacteria in water is an indicator of pollution and of potentially dangerous bacterial contamination. In themselves, fecal coliform bacteria do not pose a danger to people or animals; however, where fecal coliform are present, disease-causing bacteria may also be present. Fecal coliform contamination may indicate that water is polluted with human or animal waste, which can harbor other pathogens that may threaten human health.
Financial assistance: the act, process or program of Board participation in the loaning, granting of, or contracting for, financial assistance funds to an applicant for the financing of a Board approved project, the same being as authorized and contemplated under the provisions of Title 82 Oklahoma Statutes, Sections 1085.31 through 1085.84.
First in time, first in right: a phrase indicating that older water rights have priority over more recent rights if there is not enough water to satisfy all rights.
Flood: general and temporary conditions of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas from the overflow of lakes, streams, rivers or any other inland waters or watercourses.
Flood control pool: reservoir storage of excess runoff above the conservation pool storage capacity which is discharged at a regulated rate to reduce downstream flood damage.
Floodplain: the land adjacent to a body of water which has been or may be covered by flooding, including, but not limited to, the one-hundred year flood as defined in Title 82, Oklahoma Statutes, Section 1603.
Flow: the rate of water discharged from a source given in volume with respect to time.
Long-term average flow: an arithmetic average stream flow over a representative period of record.
Mean annual average flow: The annual mean flow found in “Statistical Summaries,” USGS publication no. 87-4205, or most recent version thereof, or other annual mean flow as approved by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board or the permitting agency.
Seasonal base flow: the sustained or fair-weather runoff, which includes but is not limited to groundwater runoff and delayed subsurface runoff.
Seven Day, two-year low flow (7Q2): The design flow for determining allowable discharge load to a stream. The flow is calculated as a moving average of seven consecutive days for each year in a given record. These seven-day low flow values are ranked in ascending order. An order number (m) is calculated based upon the number of years of record (n), with a recurrence interval (R) of two years, as m=(n+1)/R, where R=two years. A value of flow corresponding to the mth order is taken as the seven-day, two-year low flow for those historical data.
Fresh water: water which has less than five thousand (5,000) parts per million total dissolved solids. All other water is considered salt water.
G
Gaps: shortages in supply of stream water. These shortages can be due to physical supply, water rights, infrastructure, or water quality constraints.
Groundwater: fresh water under the surface of the earth regardless of the geologic structure in which it is standing or moving outside the cut bank of any definite stream.
Groundwater basin: a distinct underground body of water overlain by contiguous land having substantially the same geological and hydrological characteristics and yield capabilities. The area boundaries of a major or minor basin can be determined by political boundaries, geological, hydrological, or other reasonable physical boundaries.
Groundwater recharge: see Recharge.
Groundwater storage depletions: see Depletions.
Habitat Limited Aquatic Community (HLAC): an OWQS designation; subcategory of the beneficial use “Fish and Wildlife Propagation” where the water chemistry and habitat are not adequate to support a “Warm Water Aquatic Community.”
Hard water: water containing high concentrations (usually greater than 60 ppm) of iron, calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen ions, such water does not lather readily when used with soap and forms a scale of deposits in containers from which it evaporates.
Hardness: A measure of the capacity of water to precipitate soap and form suds or lather. Hardness represents the total concentration of calcium and magnesium ions expressed as milligrams of CaCO3 per liter.
High Quality Waters (HQW): designation in the OWQS refers to waters that exhibit water quality exceeding levels necessary to support the propagation of fishes, shellfishes, wildlife, and recreation in and on the water. This designation prohibits any new point source discharges or additional load or increased concentration of specified pollutants.
Hydraulic conductivity: the capacity of rock to transmit groundwater under pressure.
Hydrologic unit code: utilized by the United States Geologic Survey and other federal and state agencies as a way of identifying all drainage basins in the United States in a nested arrangement from largest to smallest, consisting of a multi-digit code which identifies each of the levels of classification within two-digit fields.
Hypereutrophic: refers to a lake’s “trophic status” and describes those lakes with excessive primary productivity and excessive nutrient levels.98 Central Regional Report Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Glossary
I
Impaired water: waterbody in which quality does not meet the standards prescribed for its beneficial uses.
Impoundment: body of water such as a pond or lake confined by a dam, dike, floodgate, or other barrier, used to collect and store water.
Industrial use: the use of water in processes designed to convert materials of a lower order of value into forms having greater usability and commercial value.
Infiltration: (1) The gradual downward flow of water from the surface into soil material. (2) Water other than wastewater that enters a sewer system (including sewer service connections and foundation drains) from the ground through such means as defective pipes, pipe joints, connections, or manholes. Infiltration does not include, and is distinguished from inflow.
Inflow: water other than wastewater that enters a sewer system (including sewer service connections) from sources such as, but not limited to, roof leaders, cellar drains, yard drains, area drains, drains from springs and swampy areas, manhole covers, cross connections between storm sewers and sanitary sewers, catch basins, cooling towers, storm waters, surface runoff, street wash waters, or drainage. Inflow does not include, and is distinguished from infiltration.
Instream flows: amount of water determined to be needed or set aside in a stream or river to ensure downstream environmental, social and economic benefits are met.
Interbasin transfer: the physical conveyance of water from one stream basin to another.
Interceptor sewer: a sewer that is designed for one or more of the following purposes: to intercept wastewater from a final point in a collector sewer and convey such wastes directly to a treatment facility or another interceptor; to replace an existing wastewater treatment facility and transport the wastes to an adjoining collector sewer or interceptor sewer for conveyance to a treatment plant; to transport wastewater from one or more municipal collector sewers to another municipality or to a regional plant for treatment; and to intercept an existing major discharge of raw or inadequately treated wastewater for transport directly to another interceptor or to a treatment plant.
Intolerant climax fish community: habitat and water quality adequate to support game fishes or other sensitive species introduced or native to the biotic province or ecological region, which require specific or narrow ranges of high quality environmental conditions.
Irrigation use: use of water for the production of food, fiber, crops, timber, fruits, nuts; and water applied to pastures, fields, landscaping, horticultural services, and golf courses, but not including agriculture use.
K
Kjeldahl nitrogen: see nitrogen.
L
Lake: impoundment of waters of the state over 50 acre-feet in volume which is either owned or operated by federal, state, county, or local government or appears in Oklahoma’s Clean Lakes Inventory. Surface impoundments which are used as a treatment works for the purpose of treating, stabilizing or holding wastes are excluded from this definition.
Levee: man-made structure, usually an earthen embankment, designed and constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices to contain, control, or divert the flow of water so as to provide protection from temporary flooding.
M
Major groundwater basin: a distinct underground body of water overlain by contiguous land and having substantially the same geological and hydrological characteristics and from which groundwater wells yield at least fifty (50) gallons per minute on the average basinwide if from a bedrock aquifer, and at least one hundred fifty (150) gallons per minute on the average basinwide if from an alluvium and terrace aquifer, or as otherwise designated by the Board.
Maximum annual yield (MAY): determination by the Board of the total amount of fresh groundwater that can be produced from each basin or subbasin allowing a minimum twenty (20) year life of such basin or subbasin.
Mean sea level (MSL): for purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program, the National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) of 1929 or other datum, to which base flood elevations shown on a community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map are referenced.
Median: the middle number in a given sequence of numbers, taken as the average of the two middle numbers when the sequence has an even number of numbers.
Mesotrophic: refers to a lake’s “trophic status” and describes those lakes with moderate primary productivity and moderate nutrient levels.
Million gallons per day (mgd): a rate of flow equal to 1.54723 cubic feet per second or 3.0689 acre-feet per day.
Minimum: the least quantity or amount possible, assignable, or allowable.
Mining use: any use wherein the water is applied to mining processes including but not limited to oil and gas recovery operations, for drilling and reworking wells, and for conducting oil and gas field operations.
Minor groundwater basin: distinct underground body of water overlain by contiguous land and having substantially the same geological and hydrological characteristics and which is not a major groundwater basin.
Municipal and rural water use: the use of water by a municipality, rural water district, water corporations, or community for the promotion and protection of safety, health and comfort, distribution to natural persons for the maintenance of life and property, public and private business pursuits, and the furtherance of all generally recognized municipal purposes, except large recreational uses such as lakes unless in conjunction with other uses.
N
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES): is a permit program directed by the USEPA and managed by ODEQ that controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants into waters of the United States.
Nephelometric turbidity unit (NTU): unit of measure for turbidity in water based upon a comparison of the intensity of light scattered by the sample with the intensity of light scattered by a standard reference suspension.
Nitrogen: an essential plant element and is often the limiting nutrient in fresh waters.
Ammonia (NH3): A form of nitrogen that is present naturally in surface waters. Concentrations of ammonia vary but are generally less than 10µg/L in surface and groundwater, although can exceed 30 mg/L in wastewater. Excess ammonia contributes to eutrophication of water bodies. This results in prolific algal growths that have deleterious Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Central Regional Report 99
impacts on other aquatic life, drinking water supplies, and recreation. Ammonia at high concentrations is toxic to aquatic life.
Kjeldahl nitrogen: refers to the analytical technique used to determine the total of ammonia and organic nitrogen.
Nitrate nitrogen (NO3-): measurement of the most oxidized and stable form of nitrogen in a water body. Nitrate is the principle form of combined nitrogen found in natural waters. It results from the complete oxidation of nitrogen compounds, and is generally reported in μg/L or mg/L. Nitrate is the primary form of nitrogen used by plants as a nutrient to stimulate growth. Excessive amounts of nitrogen may result in algae or plant proliferations. At high levels it is toxic to infants.
Nitrite nitrogen (NO2-): measure of a form of nitrogen that occurs as an intermediate in the nitrogen cycle. It is an unstable form that is either rapidly oxidized to nitrate (nitrification) or reduced to nitrogen gas (de-nitrification). This form of nitrogen can also be used as a source of nutrients for plants. Nitrite is generally reported in either μg/L or mg/L. It is normally present in only minute quantities in surface waters (<0.001 mg/L). Since nitrite is also a source of nutrients for plants its presence encourages plant and algae proliferation. Nitrite is toxic to aquatic life at relatively low concentrations.
Organic nitrogen: organically bound nitrogen, it includes natural materials like proteins and peptides, nucleic acids and urea.
Total nitrogen: measure of all forms of nitrogen (organic and inorganic). Total nitrogen is typically calculated by summing nitrate, nitrite, and Kjeldahl nitrogen.
Non-consumptive use: using water in a way that does not reduce the supply; e.g. diverting or instream beneficial use where substantially all the water is returned to the stream such as for navigation, hydropower production, protection of habitat for hunting, maintaining water levels for boating recreation, maintaining flow, level and/or temperature for fishing, swimming, habitat etc.
Nonpoint source (NPS): a source of pollution without a well defined point of origin. Nonpoint source pollution is commonly caused by sediment, nutrients, organic and toxic substances originating from land use activities. Nonpoint source pollution occurs when the rate of materials entering water bodies exceeds natural levels.
Normal pool elevation: the target lake elevation at which a reservoir was designed to impound water to create a dependable water supply; sometimes referred to as the top of the conservation pool.
Normal pool storage: Volume of water held in a reservoir when the lake is at “normal pool.”
Normal stream flow conditions: flow corresponding to low gradient areas in the hydrograph.
Numerical criteria: concentrations or other quantitative measures of chemical, physical or biological parameters that are assigned to protect a beneficial use.
Numerical standard: the most stringent of the numerical criteria assigned to the beneficial uses for a given stream.
Nutrient impaired reservoir: reservoir with a beneficial use or uses determined by a Nutrient Limited Watershed Impairment Study to be impaired by human-induced eutrophication.
Nutrient-Limited Watershed (NLW): watershed of a waterbody with a designated beneficial use which is adversely affected by excess nutrients as determined by Carlson’s Trophic State Index (using chlorophyll-a) of 62 or greater, or is otherwise listed as “NLW” in Appendix A of the Oklahoma Water Quality Standards.
Nutrients: elements or compounds essential as raw materials for an organism’s growth and development; these include carbon, oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus.
O
Oklahoma Water Quality Standards (OWQS): rules promulgated by the OWRB in Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 785, Chapter 45 which establish classifications of uses of waters of the state, criteria to maintain and protect such classifications, and other standards or policies pertaining to the quality of such waters. Serve a dual role to establish water quality benchmarks and be the basis for the development of water quality based pollution control programs, including discharge permits, which dictate specific treatment levels required of municipal and industrial wastewater dischargers.
Oligotrophic: refers to a lake’s “trophic status” and describes those lakes with low primary productivity and/or low nutrient levels.
Operation and maintenance (O&M): activities required to assure the dependable and economical function of treatment works.
(A) Operation: control of the unit processes and equipment which make up the treatment works. This includes financial and personnel management, records, laboratory control, process control, safety and emergency operation planning.
(B) Maintenance: preservation of functional integrity and efficiency of equipment and structures. This includes preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance and replacement of equipment.
Organic nitrogen: see Nitrogen.
Orthophosphate (PO4-3): See Phosphate
Outfall: a point source which contains all the effluent being discharged to the receiving water.
Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW): Certain waters of the state constitute an outstanding resource or have exceptional recreational and/or ecological significance. These waters include streams designated “Scenic River” or “ORW” in Appendix A of the OWQS, and waters of the State located within watersheds of Scenic Rivers. Additionally, these may include waters located within National and State parks, forests, wilderness areas, wildlife management areas, and wildlife refuges, and waters which contain species listed pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act. No degradation of water quality shall be allowed in these waters.
P
Percolation: The movement of water through unsaturated subsurface soil layers, usually continuing downward to the groundwater or water table reservoirs, and is distinguished from seepage (contained later in this glossary).
Permit availability: pertains to the amount of water that could be made available for withdrawals under permits issued in accordance with Oklahoma water law.
Permit to appropriate stream water: the specific written authorization to construct works and make an appropriation of stream water which is issued to the one whose application for a permit has been approved by the Board pursuant to the Stream Water Use law in Title 82 of the Oklahoma Statutes, Section 105.1 and following. Types of stream water permits include regular, seasonal, temporary, term, and provisional temporary.
Permittee: the person to whom a permit to use water has been issued by the Board or the person to whom such permit has been duly and properly transferred under Board rules.
pH: the measurement of the hydrogen-ion concentration in the water. A pH below 7 is acidic (the lower the number, the more acidic the water, with a decrease of one full unit representing an increase in acidity of ten times) and a pH above 7 (to a maximum of 14) is basic (the higher the number, the more basic the water). Fresh waters have a pH range from 5.5 in southeast Oklahoma to nearly 9.0 in central Oklahoma.100 Central Regional Report Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Glossary
Phosphorus:
Orthophosphate (PO4-3): measure of the inorganic oxidized form of soluble phosphorus. It is generally reported in μg/L or mg/L. This form of phosphorus is the most readily available for uptake during photosynthesis. High concentrations of orthophosphate generally occur in conjunction with algal blooms.
Total phosphorus: a measure of both inorganic and organic forms of phosphorus. Phosphorus can be present as dissolved or particulate matter. It is an essential plant nutrient and is often the most limiting nutrient to plant growth in fresh water. It is rarely found in significant concentrations in surface waters. It is often used as an indicator of eutrophication and excessive productivity. Phosphorus is generally reported in μg/L or mg/L. Since phosphorus is generally the most limiting nutrient, its input to fresh water systems can cause extreme proliferations of algal growth. Inputs of phosphorus are the prime contributing factors to eutrophication in most fresh water systems.
Physical supply availability: (1) Existing wet water accessible to be used. (2) An OCWP analysis performed to characterize statewide water supply projected through the 2060 planning horizon, compare with demand projections, and quantify anticipated gaps in the supply.
Plankton: those aquatic organisms consisting of zooplankton (protozoa, small crustaceans, larval stages of mollusks and other invertebrates), phytoplankton (algae), and nanoplankton (diatoms) in the water column.
Planning: (in reference to OWRB financial assistance) process of evaluating alternative solutions to water pollution problems, and through a systematic screening procedure, selecting the most cost effective environmentally sound alternative.
Point source: any discernible, confined and discrete conveyance, including but not limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock or concentrated animal feeding operation from which pollutants are or may be discharged. This term does not include return flows from irrigation agriculture.
Pollutant: any material, substance or property which may cause pollution.
Pollution: contamination or other alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of any natural waters of the State, or such discharge of any liquid, gaseous or solid substance into any waters of the State as will or is likely to create a nuisance or render such waters harmful, or detrimental or injurious to public health, safety or welfare, or to domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, or other legitimate beneficial uses, or to livestock, wild animals, birds, fish or other aquatic life.
Potable: suitable for drinking.
Power use: water used for power generation, including, but not limited to, fossil-fueled electric power generation and hydroelectric power generation.
Primary Body Contact Recreation (PBCR): OWQS designation; involves direct body contact with the water where a possibility of ingestion exists. In these cases the water shall not contain chemical, physical or biological substances in concentrations that are irritating to skin or sense organs or are toxic or cause illness upon ingestion by human beings.
Primary productivity: is the production of chemical energy in organic compounds by living organisms. In lakes and streams, this essentially is the lowest denominator of the food chain (phytoplankton) bringing energy into the system via photosynthesis.
Prior groundwater right: a right to use groundwater, comparable to a permit, recognized by the OWRB as having been established by compliance with the groundwater laws in effect prior to 1973.
Project Priority List: (in reference to OWRB financial assistance) a contiguous list of projects in order of priority for which Clean Water SRF assistance is expected during a five-year planning period.
Project priority points: (in reference to OWRB financial assistance) the total number of points assigned to a project by using the priority ranking formula.
Provider: private or public entity that supplies water to end users or to other providers.
Public Water Supply (PWS): for purposes of water quantity permitting under the Stream Water Use law or Oklahoma Groundwater Law, use of water for drinking water purposes by housing developments, trailer parks, churches, schools, etc., other than water used for municipal or rural water use.
R
Recharge: the inflow of water to an alluvial or bedrock aquifer.
Recreation use: non-consumptive use which includes but is not limited to the use of water for swimming, water skiing, boating, fishing, hunting or other forms of water recreation, and water for fish and wildlife conservation.
Region: for purposes of the OCWP, one of thirteen watershed based regions in Oklahoma each having from one to twelve of the 82 major watershed Basins within.
Reservoir: any surface depression which contains or will contain the water impounded by a dam.
Retail: water sold to the end users both residential domestic use and non-residential users such as places of business, industry, schools and related locations.
Return water or return flow: the portion of water diverted from a water supply which finds its way back into a watercourse.
Reverse osmosis: a process that removes salts and other substances from water. Pressure is placed on the stronger of two unequal concentrations separated by a semi-permeable membrane; a common method of desalination.
Riparian doctrine: legal system based upon riparian rights as distinguished from and contrasted with the appropriation doctrine which is based upon appropriation rights (see Appropriative right). In a state that follows the reasonable use riparian doctrine, conflicts and controversies regarding water use between riparian landowners are typically resolved in court litigation with the focus on determining reasonableness of types of use, reasonableness of volumes, and timing and methods of use among competing landowners. Unlike an appropriation right, a riparian right is not automatically lost if the riparian landowner makes no use of the water or if the riparian landowner begins use for a period, stops use, and begins the same use or changes use in the future. Each riparian landowner has the same right, based on reasonableness. Historically, the riparian doctrine has been administered though the court system with ad hoc decisions made in individual lawsuits between riparian landowners. There is generally no permit system for riparian rights in states that follow the riparian doctrine, no applications to file, and no administrative hearings held.
Riparian water right (riparian right): the right of an owner of land adjoining a stream or watercourse to use water from that stream for reasonable purposes. Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Central Regional Report 101
Riverine: relating to, formed by, or resembling a river (including tributaries), stream, brook, etc.
Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP): points-based grant program designed to assist smaller communities with water and wastewater infrastructure needs.
S
Safe Drinking Water Act: the federal Safe Drinking Water Act as may be amended, or any successor statute.
Salinity: the concentration of salt in water measured in mg/L or ppm.
Salt water: any water containing more than five thousand (5,000) parts per million total dissolved solids.
Saturated thickness: thickness below the zone of the water table in which all of the interstices are filled with groundwater.
Scenic Rivers: streams in Scenic River Areas designated by the Oklahoma Legislature which possess such unique natural scenic beauty, water conservation, fish, wildlife and outdoor recreational values of present and future benefit to the people of the state. The areas of the state designated as “scenic river areas” are listed and described in Title 82 of the Oklahoma Statutes, Section 1451.
Secchi depth: measure of water clarity by use of a black and white patterned disk (Secchi disk) lowered at depth until its pattern is no longer discernible.
Secondary Body Contact Recreation (SBCR): beneficial use designated by OWQS where ingestion of water is not anticipated such as boating or fishing.
Sediment: water transported and deposited particles derived from rocks, soil, or biological material.
Seepage: The appearance and disappearance of water at the ground surface. Seepage designates the type of movement of water in saturated material. It is distinguished from percolation, which is the predominant type of movement of water in unsaturated material. Seepage can mean specifically loss of water from a reservoir through the lake bottom or earthen dam.
Sensitive sole source groundwater basin or subbasin: a major groundwater basin or subbasin all or a portion of which has been designated by the EPA as a “Sole Source Aquifer” a mechanism to protect drinking water supplies in areas with limited water supply alternatives. It includes any portion of a contiguous aquifer located within five (5) miles of the known areal extent of the surface outcrop of the sensitive sole source groundwater basin.
Sensitive Water Supplies (SWS): designation that applies to public and private water supplies possessing conditions making them more susceptible to pollution events, thus requiring additional protection. This designation restricts point source discharges in the watershed and institutes a 10 µg/L (micrograms per liter) chlorophyll-a criterion to protect against taste and odor problems and reduce water treatment costs.
Soft water: water that contains little to no magnesium or calcium salts.
Special use: (in reference to taking and use of groundwater) includes but is not limited to the use of groundwater for groundwater heat pump systems or artificially recharging a groundwater basin or subbasin.
Specific conductivity: the measurement of the ability of water to conduct an electric current. The greater the content of ions in the water, the more current the water can carry. Ions are dissolved metals and other dissolved materials. Conductivity is reported in terms of microsiemens per centimeter (μS/cm). Natural waters are commonly found to vary between 50 and 1500 μS/cm; however, in Oklahoma, some western rivers have specific conductivity values > 25,000 uS/cm, while many waters in the Ouachita Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma have perennial conductivities of < 25.
Standards: see Oklahoma Water Quality Standards.
State Revolving Fund (SRF): fund or program to be used for loans to eligible entities for qualified projects in accordance with Federal law, rules and guidelines administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as well as state law and rules. There are two separate SRF programs administered in Oklahoma: one is for the purpose of controlling water pollution (the Clean Water SRF) administered by OWRB and the other is for the purpose or providing safe drinking water (the Drinking Water SRF) administered jointly OWRB and ODEQ.
Storm sewer: a sewer designed to carry only storm waters, surface runoff, street wash waters, and drainage.
Storm water: storm water runoff, snow melt runoff, and surface runoff and drainage.
Stratification: see Thermal stratification.
Stream: a common term that is distinguished from the phrase “definite stream” specifically defined by Oklahoma law (see above in this glossary), and is commonly understood to be a body of running water confined to a narrow defined channel that flows under gravity along the land surface, in a subterranean cavern; also applied to small rivers. In common usage denotes any flowing waterbody that may be more specifically described as follows.
Ephemeral stream: a stream that flows only in direct response to precipitation in the immediate watershed or in response to the melting of snow and ice cover.
Gaining stream: stream whose channel or upper surface lies below the water table and therefore receives water in the form of base flow from the zone of saturation.
Intermittent stream: stream or reach of a stream that is below the local water table for at least part of the year, and obtains its flow from both surface runoff and groundwater discharge.
Losing stream: stream that loses water through seepage into the ground.
Perennial stream: stream or part of a stream that flows continuously throughout the year as a result of groundwater discharge or surface runoff.
Stream system: drainage area of a watercourse or series of watercourses which converges in a large watercourse the boundaries of which have been defined and which has been previously designated by the Board as a stream system.
Stream water: water in a definite stream and includes but is not limited to water in ponds, lakes, reservoirs, and playa lakes.
Sulfate: commonly found as a natural component of sedimentary and igneous rocks in the form of metallic sulfides. Waters containing sulfates may contain sulfate-reducing bacteria. These bacteria produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which gives off a rotten egg odor. Usually ranges from 5 to 50 mg/L in natural waters, although can be much higher in saline lakes.
Supply Source: the OCWP considers three major sources of water supply. They are alluvial groundwater, bedrock groundwater, and surface water.
Surface Water: water in streams and waterbodies as well as diffused over the land surface.
Surface water gaps: see Gaps.102 Central Regional Report Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan
Glossary
T
Temporary permit: for groundwater basins or subbasins for which a maximum annual yield has not been determined, “temporary” permits are granted to users allocating two acre-feet of water per acre of land per year. Temporary permits are for one-year terms which can be revalidated by the permittee each year, subject to conditions prescribed in OWRB rules or in an individual case by the OWRB. When the equal proportionate share and maximum annual yield are approved by the OWRB, all temporary permits overlying the studied basin are converted to regular permits at the new approved allocation rate.
Terrace deposits: fluvial or wind-blown deposit occurring along the margin and above the level of a body of water and representing the former floodplain of a stream or river.
Thermal stratification: horizontal layers of different densities produced in a lake caused by temperature.
Total dissolved solids (TDS): a measure of the amount of dissolved material in the water column. It is reported in mg/L with values in fresh water naturally ranging from 0-1000 mg/L. Dissolved salts such as sodium, chloride, magnesium and sulfate contribute to elevated filterable residue values. High concentrations of TDS limit the suitability of water as a drinking and livestock watering source as well as irrigation supply. High TDS waters may interfere with the clarity, color, and taste of manufactured products. High TDS naturally occurs in some parts of western Oklahoma.
Total maximum daily load (TMDL): sum of individual wasteload allocations for point sources, safety reserves, and loads from nonpoint source and natural backgrounds.
Total suspended solids (TSS): measure of the particulate matter that is suspended within the water column. High concentrations of TSS increase turbidity, restrict light penetration hindering photosynthetic activity, damage fish gills, and interfere with water treatment processes.
Transmissivity: measure of how much water can be transmitted horizontally in an aquifer. Transmissivity is the product of hydraulic conductivity of the rock and the saturated thickness of the aquifer.
Treatment works: any devices and systems used in the storage, treatment, recycling, and reclamation of municipal sewage, including intercepting sewers, outfall sewers, sewage collection systems, pumping, power, and other equipment, and their appurtenances. Also, any other method or system for preventing, abating, reducing, storing, treating, separating, or disposing of municipal waste, including storm water runoff, on-site systems and waste in combined storm water and sanitary sewer systems.
Tributary: stream or other body of water, surface or underground, which contributes its water to another larger stream or body of water.
Trophic State Index (TSI): Carlson’s (1977) trophic state index (TSI) is one of the most commonly used measurements to compare lake trophic status, which is based on algal biomass. Carlson’s TSI uses chlorophyll-a concentrations to define level of eutrophication on a scale of 1 to 100. The trophic scale is set up so that a ten-unit increase in trophic state represents a doubling of algae biomass. The OWRB’s statewide lakes sampling program assigns one of four trophic states to Oklahoma reservoirs on an annual basis. A lake is considered oligotrophic below 40, mesotrophic from 41-50, eutrophic 51-60, and hypereutrophic when greater than or equal to 61. The biological condition of the waterbody indicates the lake’s level of nutrient enrichment or eutrophication. Secchi depth and total phosphorus can also be used to calculate TSI.
Trophic status: a lake’s trophic state, essentially a measure of its biological productivity and is a major determinant of water quality. There are four status levels: Oligotrophic, Mesotrophic, Eutrophic, and Hypereutrophic.
Turbidity: combination of suspended and colloidal materials (like silt, clay, plankton, etc.), which reduce the transmission of light through scattering or absorption. The clarity of a body of water is important in determining its condition and productivity. Turbidity values are generally reported in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU). Pure distilled water would have non-detectable turbidity (0 NTU). The extinction depth (for lakes), measured with a Secchi disc, is an alternative means of expressing turbidity.
V
Vadose zone: see Zone of aeration.
Vested stream water right or vested right: a right to use stream water, comparable to a permit, recognized by the OWRB as having been established by compliance with the stream water laws in effect prior to 1972.
W
Warm Water Aquatic Community (WWAC): an OWQS designation; a subcategory of the beneficial use category “Fish and Wildlife Propagation” where the water quality and habitat are adequate to support intolerant climax fish communities and includes an environment suitable for the full range of warm water benthos.
Waste: in reference to water use or water quantity, means use of water in such an inefficient manner that excessive losses occur or any manner that is not a beneficial use or use of water in excess of the amount which is authorized by the water right.
Waste by depletion: unauthorized use of wells or groundwater; drilling a well, taking, or using fresh groundwater without a permit, except for domestic use; taking more fresh groundwater than is authorized by the permit; taking or using fresh groundwater in any manner so that the water is lost for beneficial use; transporting fresh groundwater from a well to the place of use in such a manner that there is an excessive loss in transit; using fresh groundwater to reach a pervious stratum and be lost into cavernous or otherwise pervious materials encountered in a well; drilling wells and producing fresh groundwater there from except in accordance with the well spacing previously determined by the Board; or using fresh groundwater for air conditioning or cooling purposes without providing facilities to aerate and reuse such water.
Waste by pollution: permitting or causing the pollution of a fresh water strata or basin through any act which will permit fresh groundwater polluted by minerals or other waste to filter or otherwise intrude into such a basin or subbasin or failure to properly plug abandoned fresh water wells in accordance with rules of the Board and file reports thereof.
Water and Sewer Program: the loan and grant program administered by the Board for making loans from bond proceeds, emergency grants from the Grant Account of the Water Resources Fund in the State Treasury, contract financial assistance, and related financial assistance for water and sewer projects.
Water quality: physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water which determine diversity, stability, and productivity of the climax biotic community or affect human health.
Water Quality Standards (WQS): see Oklahoma Water Quality Standards.Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan Central Regional Report 103
Water right: right to the use of stream or groundwater for beneficial use and is reflected by permits or vested rights for stream water or prior rights for groundwater.
Water reuse: treated M&I wastewater captured and reused commonly for non-potable irrigation and industrial applications to reduce demand upon potable water systems.
Water supply: a body of water, whether static or moving either on or under the surface of the ground, or in a man-made reservoir, available for beneficial use on a dependable basis.
Water supply availability: the supply has all three necessary components: physical water, water of a usable quality, and the water right or permit to use the water.
Water supply options: alternatives that a basin or region has to meet changing demands, they include but may not be limited to Demand Management, Out-of-Basin Supplies, building additional storage (reservoirs), direct diversions of stream water, and increasing groundwater wells.
Water supply yield: see Dependable yield.
Water table: The upper surface of a zone of saturation; the upper surface of the groundwater.
Waterbody: any specified segment or body of waters of the state, including but not limited to an entire stream or lake or a portion thereof.
Watercourse: the channel or area that conveys a flow of water.
Waters of the state: all streams, lakes, ponds, marshes, watercourses, waterways, wells, springs, irrigation systems, drainage systems, and all other bodies or accumulations of water, surface and underground, natural or artificial, public or private, which are contained within, flow through, or border upon this State or any portion thereof.
Watershed: the boundaries of a drainage area of a watercourse or series of watercourses which diverge above a designated location or diversion point, as determined by the Board.
Well: any type of excavation for the purpose of obtaining groundwater or to monitor or observe conditions under the surface of the earth but does not include oil and gas wells.
Well yield: Well yield represents the amount of water the well can pump or is expected to pump over a given time, usually in gpm. This value is dependent on the aquifer parameters, size of well, and pump size.
Wholesale: Transfer of water to a Retail Provider, increasing the amount a wholesaler must deliver and reducing the amount the purchasing provider will need to divert from its sources.
Withdrawal: water taken from a supply source.
Y
Yield: see Dependable yield and/or Well yield.
Z
Zone of aeration: a subsurface soil zone that likes above the zone of saturation and is characterized by the saturation of soil interstices partially by water and partially by air.
Zone of saturation: a subsurface soil zone in which all voids, large and small, are ideally filled with water under pressure greater than atmospheric; does not include the capillary fringe.The objective of the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan is to ensure dependable water supply for all Oklahomans through integrated and coordinated water resources planning and to provide information so that water providers, policy-makers, and water users can make informed decisions concerning the use and management of Oklahoma’s water resources.
This study was funded through an agreement with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board under its authority to update the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan, the state’s long-range water planning strategy, due for submittal to the State Legislature in 2012. Results from this and other studies have been incorporated where appropriate in the OCWP’s technical and policy considerations.