Wells drilled in good-quality channel gravel can yield more than 1,000 gallons per minute, while other areas may not yield enough groundwater for domestic use. Slopes and elevations in topography also affect streamflow and overland runoff. Water-use legislation can't be uniformly applied when each area has a unique set of characteristics. The differences among the Platte, the Republican and the Niobrara rivers demonstrate just how unique each system can be. The Republican and the Niobrara have cut streambeds down to bedrock, as opposed to the Platte, which comes through the state essentially on a ridge.
Streamflow sources differ as well.
Groundwater inflow contributes nearly half the discharge of the Platte, and the Niobrara would probably disappear during drought years without the inflow of groundwater. The Republican, however, is primarily fed by overland runoff, Goeke said. Diversions also plays a role in the characteristics of river sytems. Much of the Platte is diverted for irrigation, particularly in Dawson and Phelps counties, he said. Besides significantly reducing the flow of the Platte, diversions has caused a rise in the groundwater levels in some areas due to seepage.