Karst hydrogeology of the southern catchment of the River Wye, Derbyshire

A conceptual model of the regional hydrogeology of the White Peak, considered fundamental to the
understanding of the local (Wye) catchment has been presented. Specific to the local catchment, an
investigation of the karst hydrogeology has been carried out in the context of its geological setting
using results from: tracer experiments, chemical analyses of spring water, and hydrograph analyses;
alongside detailed consideration of speleogenetic processes and terrain evaluation. Derived from these
studies, a conceptual model has been developed, which represents the catchment hydrogeology in a
number of hydrogeological units. Their attribution reflects the lithological differences and material
responses to both stress and mineralization that have exerted significant influence on speleogenetic
processes in the catchment. The units exhibit different recharge, through-flow and resurgence
characteristics. Speleogenetic processes in some of the bedrock units support the inception horizon
hypothesis. Flow paths typically pass through more than one hydrogeological unit.
Lead-zinc-fluorite-baryte mineralization is associated with the dominant hydrogeological unit on the
eastern side of the catchment. The mineral deposits were subject to several phases of exploitation
facilitated by dewatering via drainage adits (soughs). Records pertaining to the soughs have been used
to contribute to an understanding of the changes in groundwater levels as a consequence of mineral
exploitation. A case study focused on Lathkill Dale has been used to test the catchment model and
further explore human impacts on the hydrogeology.
The major contribution of this work is in furthering the understanding of the hydrogeology and
speleogenetic processes operating in the catchment. This is supplemented by additional contributions
to the understanding of the distribution of superficial deposits within the catchment. Speculation
regarding mineralizing processes; geomorphology; functioning of karst aquifers; seasonality of the
groundwater chemistry; climate change, and the engineering properties of the bedrock may encourage
further research in these areas.