Differentiating Recharge Zones and Primary Flowpaths in the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer through Traditional and Nontraditional Groundwater Tracers

  • Water Quality
  • Panhandle

Award Year: 2026

End Year: 2027

$

This project aims to differentiate recharge zones and primary flowpaths in the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer using both traditional and nontraditional groundwater tracers to support water quality and quantity management. Sampling from 40 wells will use naturally occurring age dating tracers to map groundwater recharge and flow paths. This information can be used to improve models used to sustain this key water source.

As of May 2026, 44 wells have been sampled with early data indicating groundwater ages ranging from <1-50 years, from distinct sources. This data will support future model updates and resource protection.