Bernal Subbasin facts for kids
The Bernal Subbasin is like a giant underground sponge that holds water. It's an aquifer, which is a body of rock or sediment that can store and let groundwater flow through it. This important water storage area is found in the southwestern part of the Livermore Valley Groundwater Basin in Alameda County, California, United States.
Contents
What is the Bernal Subbasin?
The Bernal Subbasin is a special underground area that stores water. Think of it as a natural underground reservoir. This water, called groundwater, fills up tiny spaces in rocks and soil beneath the surface. It's a very important source of water for the area.
Where is the Bernal Subbasin located?
The Bernal Subbasin is located in the beautiful Livermore Valley. It has natural borders that help define where it is.
- To the east, it's bordered by the Pleasanton Fault.
- To the north, you'll find the Park Fault.
- And to the west, it's next to the Calaveras Fault.
These faults are like natural lines in the Earth's crust that help shape the subbasin.
How does water move in the Subbasin?
All the groundwater in the wider Livermore Valley slowly moves towards the Bernal Subbasin. It's like a gentle underground river flowing into this area.
Streams that flow through the Livermore Valley also play a part. They merge together before their water enters the Bernal Subbasin. After passing through this subbasin and the Livermore Amador Valley, all this water eventually exits through a waterway called the Arroyo de la Laguna.
The groundwater within the Bernal Subbasin itself usually flows from east to west. This means the water is always on the move, even if we can't see it.
How deep is the groundwater?
The groundwater in the Bernal Subbasin is typically found at certain depths below the ground. You would usually find this water between 12 and 30 feet (about 3.7 to 9.1 meters) deep. This underground water is a vital resource for the region.
