Water resources of the Gig Harbor Peninsula and adjacent areas, Washington

The study area is a remnant of a glacial-drift plain nearly surrounded by marine embayments. A water-resources appraisal was made because the area is experiencing rapid population growth. Additional ground water is available for use in the study area. At least 11 cubic feet per second, five times the 1978 rate of use, can probably be obtained. Ground-water quality is generally very good, with minor problems of excess iron, manganese, dissolved solids, chloride, and coliform bacteria. Total flow through the hydrologic system is at an average rate of 254 cubic feet per second, which includes 93 cubic feet per second of ground-water recharge. (USGS)