Groundwater flow and geochemical evolution in the Central Flinders Ranges, South Australia

Based on the isotopic and chemical analysis of groundwater, a conceptual model of groundwater flow was developed to understand groundwater evolution in the study area (Fig. 1). The Oratunga Area is typical of such a hydrologic system: termed mountain front recharge sedimentary basin. Thus, diffuse recharge of low relief basin is often controlled by low rainfall and a high potential for evaporation from deep zones. While, the adjacent mountain ranges have higher rainfall and lower temperatures with shallower soil profiles attributes that reduce the potential for evaporation and permits dilution, while enhancing rates of direct rainfall recharge and streambed recharge of shallow sedimentary and fractured rock aquifers.382