Seepage Meters in Seepage and Recharge Studies

A falling-head theory and field procedures are presented for measuring seepage and hydraulic conductivity of bottom materials in canals or ponds with seepage meters. Manometer techniques are used for measuring falling head. The method is applicable to uniform bottoms and to material that is underlain by much more, or much less, permeable soil. In addition, hydraulic impedance of thin, slowly permeable layers can be measured. Examples are presented showing the application of the technique to investigations of seepage and recharge, and in field evaluation of artificial soil sealants for reducing seepage.