Publication Citation

USGS Series Hydrologic Atlas
Report Number 551
Title Water resources of the Little Fork River watershed, northeastern Minnesota
Edition -
Language ENGLISH
Author(s) Helgesen, John O.; Lindholm, Gerald F.; Ericson, Donald W.
Year 1976
Originating office
USGS Library Call Number M(200) Hy no.551
Physical description 11 maps on sheet :col. ;103 x 132 cm. fold. in envelope 30 x 24 cm.
ISBN
Northernmost latitude 0483000
Southernmost latitude 0473000
Easternmost longitude -0923000
Westernmost longitude -0933000

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Abstract

The Little Fork River watershed is one of 39 watershed units designated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for evaluation of the State 's water resources. Included is an appraisal of the occurrence, quantity, quality, and availability of ground and surface waters. Water resources are not intensively developed anywhere in the watershed. Essentially all water used is withdrawn from ground-water sources, mainly glacial drift, which ranges from 0 to over 200 feet (61 meters) in thickness. Buried sand and gravel in the drift is the most favorable source for development. Most ground water is of the calcium or calcium magnesium bicarbonate type. The degree of mineralization generally increases downgradient in the flow system. Ground water is commonly very hard and high in iron and manganese. Lakes and wetlands have a natural regulating effect on streamflow. Water in streams is of the calcium bicarbonate type. The amount of mineralization reflects surficial geology, being greatest in streams draining glacial-lake sediments and least in streams draining areas of sand lakes. Color and iron concentration in stream waters generally exceed recommended domestic consumption limits. (Woodard-USGS)