The Erfurt Formation: An example of the genesis of a fissured aquifer

Descriptions of aquifers assume that they represent static systems, i.e., that aquifers do not change over time with regard to their permeability, storage capacity and dissolved matter content. However, if one considers the development of an aquifer over geological time scales, one recognizes that aquifers represent dynamic systems that are subject to changes over time. This is shown using the example of the Erfurt Formation in North Wurttemberg, Southwest Germany. Three contiguous areas can be identified which correspond to different stages of aquifer genesis. Starting from an aquitard, a productive aquifer develops, which becomes an aquitard again as the overlaying layers are eroded and the remaining layers are weathered. The example of the Erfurt Formation shows that hydrogeologically different areas that are today next to each other, correspond to successive chronological stages of aquifer genesis in a cuesta landscape. This model of aquifer genesis can also be transferred to other aquifer systems and should be taken into account in aquifer characterisation.

Automated summary

Descriptions of aquifers often assume they are static systems, but in reality, aquifers change over time. The example of the Erfurt Formation in Germany shows that aquifer genesis occurs in different stages in contiguous areas. This model can be applied to other aquifer systems and should be considered in aquifer characterisation.