While groundwater is a vital resource for any development project, accessing these reserves can be difficult without the proper tools and experience. However, scientists and researchers need to perform regular well monitoring, as this gives property owners, government agencies, and developers insight into the quality, quantity, and movement of the water supply. They do this by installing small monitoring wells. Below are answers to common questions about these vital pieces of infrastructure.

What You Should Know About Monitoring Wells

What is a monitoring well?

Unlike most wells, which are designed to extract water, monitoring wells only provide a glimpse into the groundwater. This gives geoscientists access to the underground supply so that they can take samples of the water and test it. These devices are usually long, thin tubes that penetrate deep into the aquifer.

How do researchers use monitoring wells?

Well monitoring experts use wells to measure groundwater depth, which allows them to advise landowners and government agencies on water usage. Through these access points, they can also take samples for testing to ensure groundwater supplies are free from chemical contaminants, heavy metals, and toxic materials.

Wells in several locations can also be used to understand how water moves underground. For example, researchers can pour a non-toxic dye into one well, then monitor others to see when or where the color appears. This information helps them identify potential contamination sources or sensitive environmental areas.

What are the different types of monitoring wells?

A single borehole may provide all the information a well monitoring professional needs. However, if they’re measuring trends across an area or the movement of groundwater, they may require more access points.

Nested designs feature several wells at different lengths, placed within the same borehole. Monitoring water levels across a larger area may require a network of individual wells, which creates a nested system.

Where should I place monitoring wells?

The ideal location for well monitoring depends on the topography and water table of the property. Many people opt to place them at the highest points on the property, as this prevents issues with rain runoff. Runoff is particularly troublesome because it could wash surface contaminants into the aquifer. Alternatively, a geoscientist may recommend clustering several wells nearby to follow the current of underground bodies of water.

When you need to install monitoring wells on your property, contact GeoTek Alaska in Anchorage. They have a fleet of small, mobile equipment that allows them to reach remote locations throughout the state. For nearly 20 years, they’ve provided detailed insight and expertise to government agencies, property owners, and builders, gaining a reputation for reliable results and cost-effective solutions. Visit the website for more on their well monitoring services, and call (907) 569-5900 to speak with a team member.