Surface water–groundwater interactions of Xiluodu Reservoir based on the dynamic evolution of seepage, temperature, and hydrochemistry due to impoundment

Reservoir construction greatly affects the regional ecological environment, particularly surface water–groundwater interactions around the reservoir. Xiluodu Reservoir, a representative large‐scale reservoir in China, has had substantial impacts on surface water–groundwater interactions at the dam site since impoundment. This study analysed the dynamic characteristics of surface water–groundwater level, temperature, and hydrochemistry to determine the evolution of surface water–groundwater interaction before and after the impoundment. The levels of groundwater and some surface water rose by more than 100 m after impoundment and the water level of saturated limestone gradually stabilized, whereas basalt saturation in the affected area continued to expand. The groundwater temperature did not decrease significantly, whereas the hydrochemical types and ion contents of both surface water and groundwater experienced significant changes. Calculation of the saturation index indicated spatiotemporal changes in the saturation state of minerals. The replenishment source of each type of water and their mutual relationships were determined using cluster analysis and isotope characteristics. The results confirmed continuous, significant, and variable surface water–groundwater interactions at the dam site, which were partially reversed after impoundment. Changes in surface water–groundwater interactions were due to impoundment, the impact of which decreases with distance from the dam, as well as the unique geological conditions and artificial construction. The comprehensive analysis based on the water dynamic of water level, temperature, and hydrochemistry determined that there is significant, continuous and changing surface water–ground water interaction in the Xiluodu Reservoir. The interactions have undergone a significant evolution for impoundment also this evolution has not been completely stable and will continue to develop.