What factor affects the water quality of the Dakota formation?

The water quality of the Dakota formation is significantly influenced by climate and precipitation levels. These climatic factors determine the amount of water that recharges the aquifer, which directly affects the dilution of potential contaminants in the groundwater. For instance, areas with higher precipitation can lead to increased water flow through the soil, which may help to filter out some pollutants, while also introducing more natural minerals into the water supply. Conversely, in drier climates, there may be less recharge and a higher concentration of natural minerals or contaminants due to reduced water levels. This interplay between climate, precipitation, and water quality is crucial for understanding how the Dakota formation's water is maintained or compromised over time.

The depth of the aquifer does play a role in the overall availability of water and its exposure to potential surface contaminants, but it is not as directly impactful on the innate quality of the water as the climate factors. Additionally, while geological composition does influence filtration and the presence of natural minerals, the immediate impact of climate and precipitation is more pronounced. Pollution from urban areas is more of a localized impact that can certainly affect water quality, but it does not encompass the broader climatic influences that can shape the formation over time.