Vulnerability of recently recharged groundwater in the California coastal basins to NO3− contamination

Abstract

Nitrate (N03-) is the most widespread non-point source (NPS) contaminant in groundwater. The California Coastal Basin (CCB) aquifers are vulnerable to contamination because of the heavy agricultural and industrial practices that contribute to NPS N03-. Predicting the probability of non-point source (NPS) N03- contamination in groundwater can be a valuable tool for managing water resources. Previous studies have identified important controls of N03- contamination and developed logistic regression models that have successfully predicted the probability of N03- exceeding background concentrations. However, there has not been a successfully calibrated model that represents the vulnerability in the CCB. My primary research objectives are to develop a model that better represents the vulnerability of groundwater in the CCB to NPS N03- contamination. I will identify important controls of N03- contamination in different parts of the CCB. My findings will provide useful information for resource managers and policy makers when making decisions about California's water resources.