MPCA - Ground Water and Aquifers in the Red River Basin Return to Main Red River Basin Page Red River of the North Basin Ground Water and Aquifers in the Basin Groundwater underlies the land surface throughout much of the basin, though not all of it is easily accessible or of acceptable quality and quantity for use. Groundwater is found in loose beds of gravel, sand, silt or clay, or in bedrock. These zones of saturated rock and soils are called aquifers.
Some aquifers yield much more water than others, as shown on the map below.
Groundwater is obtained in the basin primarily from glacial drainage channel deposits, lake deltas and beach deposits, outwash deposits, and sand and gravel bodies imbedded with till. Well yields from bedrock are generally of much lower quantity and quality than other aquifers. For a complete description of ground water in this basin, go to the Red River Valley Region Ground Water Profile . The following map shows where an area of poor quality ground water exists in the Red River Valley. If you have suggestions on how we can improve our service to you, please drop us a note.