DETERMINATION OF AQUIFER DIFFUSIVITY FROM AQUIFER RESPONSE TO FLUCTUATIONS IN RIVER STAGE

The diffusivity of a homogeneous isotropic aquifer can be determined from the response in the aquifer to fluctuations in river stage. Observed changes in head in the aquifer are compared with theoretic head values computed assuming a series of diffusivities. These values are generated by approximating the stage hydrograph as a series of discrete steps and summing the influence of each increment. The diffusivity of the aquifer is calculated from the best‐fitting theoretic response curve. Diffusivities computed for an aquifer at Musquodoboit Harbour, Nova Scotia, agree with values determined from pumping test and digital model analysis. Copyright 1969 by the American Geophysical Union.