Land subsidence (LS) is a gradual settling or sudden sinking of the Earth's surface owing to subsurface movement of earth materials. More than 80% of the identified LS in the nation is due to our exploitation of underground water (UW). This report illustrates the 3 basic mechanisms by which human influence on UW causes land subsidence: compaction of aquifer systems, dewatering of organic soils, and mass wasting through dissolution and collapse of susceptible earth materials. Also examines the role that water-management groups play in mitigating subsidence damages. Color and B&W photos, maps, and drawings.

See journals under US Geological survey. Prof. paper 1401-A.

This book examines the process of injecting treated wastewater into wells to replenish aquifers, and thereby slow the process of land subsidence, and help to mitigate coastal flooding. It explains how up to fifty percent of sea-level rise may be due to land subsidence, and up to fifty percent of land subsidence may be due to aquifer compaction. The concepts covered discuss replenishing aquifers with clean water to reduce nutrient discharges into out-falled waterways; providing a sustainable supply of groundwater; reducing the rate of land subsidence; and protecting the groundwater from saltwater intrusion. Practical case studies from Virginia and California will be included.

A history of land subsidence in the Santa Clara Valley from 1916 to 1982 caused by water-level decline.