Evaluation of alternative groundwater-withdrawal scenarios on water levels in Kingsbury Pond, upper Charles River Basin, eastern Massachusetts

First posted July 31, 2023 For additional information, contact: Director, New England Water Science CenterU.S. Geological Survey10 Bearfoot RoadNorthborough, MA 01532 Kingsbury Pond is a glacial kettle pond in the town of Norfolk, Massachusetts, Mill River Basin, which part Upper Charles Basin eastern Massachusetts. The hydraulically connected to surrounding groundwater-flow system, and water levels fluctuate response recharge aquifer from precipitation wastewater return flows through septic systems, withdrawals at nearby wells, directly on surface. Concerns about effects prompted an investigation better understand hydrology its groundwater determine if wells Franklin, Mass., can be modified simultaneously reduce effect yet meet water-supply demands Town Franklin.An existing, transient model was for this study area near improve representation hydrologic system pond. mean annual water-level altitude simulated nonpumping conditions using 136 feet (ft), falls within range likely pond-altitude fluctuations 135 140 ft estimated average before beginning two operated by Franklin (wells FR–04 FR–05). decreased 3.8 132.2 monthly withdrawal rates all 2010 2019 (referred as baseline condition).A management that links with mathematical optimization method developed evaluate three alternative groundwater-withdrawal scenarios public-water Pond. In first scenario, FR–05 were increased their maximum authorized months year; other specified rates. This scenario resulted 129.3 ft, or decline 6.7 compared 2.9 conditions.The results second showed relative 2010–19 while meeting Franklin’s shifted wells. one-third practical determined model. decrease 134.1 equivalent 51 percent increase (improvement) level condition.A third done existing has capacity permitted rate 3.45 million gallons per day maintaining conditions. analysis indicated cannot demand during some year fixed rates; however, capable 90 (3.10 day) increasing above