Hydrology of the Powder River alluvium between Sussex, Wyoming, and Moorhead, Montana

The potential for developing water supplies from the alluvium along the Powder River between Sussex, Wyoming, and Moorehead, Montana, is very limited. The areal extent and saturated thickness of the alluvium are not large. Water in the alluvium primarily is derived from seepage from the river, which goes dry periodically. Low flow is sustained by groundwater discharge or irrigation return flow near Sussex, but not near Arvada, Wyoming , or Moorhead. The alluvium and the river have good hydraulic connection, but evidently are isolated from the bedrock. Pumpage from wells completed in the alluvium is highly dependent on water supplied directly from the river. The quality of water in the alluvium also limits use of the water. Although the quality improves downstream, it is unacceptable for drinking water and possibly for irrigation and some industrial uses, but is acceptable for most livestock watering. (USGS)