Feasibility of water-supply development from the unconfined aquifer in Charlotte County, Florida

The unconfined aquifer in Charlotte County contains some potable water over most of the county, and represents a potential source of water supply to help satisfy the increasing demands of development. An estimated 150 billion cubic feet of relatively good quality water is stored in the unconfined aquifer. Transmissivity of this aquifer averages about 500 square feet per day, ranging from 100 to 7000 feet per day. Although recharge is primarily from rainfall, a significant amount occurs by upward movement of water from underlying confined aquifers through abandoned and flowing irrigation wells. Average annual recharge is estimated at 12 inches per year, and ranges from less than one inch to 16 inches per year. Chemical quality of the water is variable. However, chloride concentrations of water from the unconfined aquifer generally are less than 50 milligrams per liter. The area of greatest potential yield is located east of Telegraph Swamp in eastern Charlotte County. (Woodard-USGS)