Confining Layer

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-006138",
  "term": "Confining Layer",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. A geologic formation characterized by low permeability that inhibits the flow of water.\n\n2. A \"confining layer\" is a geological formation characterized by low permeability that inhibits the flow of water. See also Bedrock and Permeability.\n\n3. Layer of rock that keeps the ground water in the aquifer below it under pressure. This pressure creates springs and helps supply water to wells.\n\n4. A layer of sediment or lithologic unit of low permeability that bounds an aquifer.\n\n5. A layer of low hydraulic conductivity (relative to adjacent geologic materials) that is not expected to be used as an aquifer.",
  "subject": "Land, waste and cleanup",
  "references": [
    "Underground Storage Tank Sites Guide Glossary; Office of Underground Storage Tanks Technical Terms; Glossary of Technical Terms: Office of Underground Storage Tanks",
    "Waste and Cleanup Risk Assessment Glossary",
    "Private Wells Glossary",
    "USGS National Water-Quality Assessment (NAWQA) Program Glossary",
    "Hazard Ranking System Glossary"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/confining-layer/"
}