Ground water surface or water table maps are now available for Auglaize, Mercer, Paulding and Van Wert counties, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

The ODNR Division of Soil and Water Resources provides ground water surface and water table maps for 42 Ohio counties. The maps, which illustrate the direction of ground water flow, may be viewed at www.dnr.state.oh.us/tabid/3623/Default.aspx.

Ground water surface maps are being created for bedrock (consolidated formations), and sand and gravel (unconsolidated formations) aquifers. These water table maps illustrate ground water surface much like the contour lines of a topographic map represent a visual model of the ground surface.

These maps can be used to determine the direction and gradient of ground water flow, determine ground water recharge and discharge areas, and can be used as input data for ground water modeling programs. These maps can also be used to assist in preparing water resource plans and technical studies, the mapping of ground water stress areas, and in possible ground water diversion issues.

Paper copies of the maps can also be purchased for $8 each plus shipping and handling. For information, contact Jim Raab by calling (614) 265-6747 or emailing [email protected].