High School

Write a brief paragraph about the description of the hydrology of Kauai, Hawaii? Include Summary of surface water resources, Summary of groundwater resources, Summary of environmental risks to the water resources.

A) Kauai possesses abundant surface water resources due to its high rainfall and numerous streams.
B) Groundwater resources on Kauai are primarily sourced from volcanic aquifers and are susceptible to contamination.
C) Environmental risks to Kauai's water resources include pollution from agriculture and urban runoff.
D) Kauai's hydrology features pristine surface water bodies but faces challenges from urbanization and land use changes.

Answer :

Final answer:

Kauai's hydrology is characterized by A) abundant surface water due to high rainfall and numerous streams, significant groundwater resources in volcanic aquifers, and environmental risks from agricultural and urban runoff.

Explanation:

Located in Hawaii, Kauai is known for its lush hydrology which includes a wealth of surface water resources. The abundance of rainfall and myriad streams contribute to the island's extensive surface water systems. Aside from surface water, Kauai also holds significant groundwater resources, which are found in volcanic aquifers.

These aquifers are essential as they contain a much larger volume of usable freshwater than rivers and lakes. Given its geological structure and porous rock material, Kauai allows for the movement of groundwater to surface waters such as streams and lakes. However, environmental risks are challenging these water resources, notably potential pollution from agricultural and urban runoff.

These contaminants pose threats to the purity of both surface and groundwater, making it vital to understand hydrologic cycles and implement management strategies that protect these valuable resources from being compromised.