Come to Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum on Thursday, June 15th at 7 p.m. for a fascinating presentation and discussion with Bill Hirt, emeritus geology instructor at the College of the Siskiyous.

Mount Shasta dominates the hydrology of the region. Much of the water that falls onto the mountain percolates downwards emerging from springs near its base, months to decades later. These springs, as well as modest surface runoff, feed the flows of the Shasta, Sacramento, and McCloud Rivers.

In addition to surface streams, water from Mount Shasta also recharges local aquifers and soil moisture. To ensure local groundwater is not over-drafted, because that will adversely affect both spring flows and well levels, hydrologists monitor the inputs to and outputs from the Mount Shasta hydrologic system.

This data is being used to calibrate a regional groundwater model. It will help predict how the system will respond to annual variations in temperature and precipitation, as well as the long-term effects of climate change.

Your $5 donation for this event is greatly appreciated.