USGS - Science for a Changing World

U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
Scientific Investigation Report 2005-5164

Seepage Study of McLeod Creek and East Canyon Creek near Park City, Summit County, Utah, 2004

By C.D. Wilkowske

ABSTRACT

Seepage investigations on McLeod Creek downstream of U.S. Geological Survey streamflow-gaging station McLeod Creek near Park City, Utah, and its confluence with Kimball Creek during the summer of 2004 indicate that this section of the creek is a gaining reach. The total seepage gains ranged from 1.8 to 2.7 cubic feet per second, or a 32 to 55 percent gain. The apparent average total seepage gain was 2.2 cubic feet per second, or an average 42 percent gain. Seepage investigations from the U.S. Geological Survey streamflow-gaging station at East Canyon Creek below I-80 Rest Stop near Park City, Utah, to the station at East Canyon Creek near Jeremy Ranch, Utah, indicate that this section of East Canyon Creek is a slightly losing reach. The total seepage losses ranged from -1.2 to -2.0 cubic feet per second. This is a loss of between -18 and -27 percent from discharge measured at the upstream gaging station. The apparent average total seepage loss for the reach was -1.0 cubic feet per second, or -18 percent. Seepage information also was obtained along East Canyon Creek by using water-temperature data recorded in three shallow streambed piezometers. Surface-water temperature also was recorded at these locations. These water-temperature profiles indicate a seepage loss at all three locations along East Canyon Creek. This seepage loss appears to decrease in September and October.
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SIR2005_5164.pdf (3.2 mb)

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CONTENTS

Abstract

Introduction

Purpose and Scope

Methods used to determine seepage along McLeod Creek and East Canyon Creek

Streamflow Measurements

Temperature Measurements in East Canyon Creek

Results and Discussion

Seepage gains and losses for McLeod Creek

Seepage gains and losses for East Canyon Creek

Heat Tracing in East Canyon Creek

Summary

References Cited

References Cited

Send questions or comments about this report to the author, Chris Wilkowske at wilkowsk@usgs.gov, 801.908.5066.

For more information about USGS activities in Utah, visit the USGS Utah District home page.

URL:http://ut.water.usgs.gov
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