Contaminated groundwater can lead to several serious concerns, including poor drinking-water quality and the increased risk of illness and disease it brings. Groundwater sampling will help prevent these problems, but, first, it can be helpful to understand some of the common causes of contamination. 

How Does Groundwater Become Contaminated? 

1. Storage Tanks

Storage tanks hold chemicals that can pose health and environmental risks if they leak into the ground. Oil, gasoline, propane, and fertilizers are among the most common materials stored in these tanks. Minimize the risk of leakage by keeping up with all required tank maintenance, never overfilling them beyond their stated capacity, and budgeting for routine groundwater sampling to ensure the safety and efficacy of the tanks.

2. Septic Tanks

When you don't have access to a municipal water system, a septic tank is essential for wastewater treatment. It receives wastewater from a residence or commercial building, treats it, and releases the treated water into a drain field, where it percolates back into the soil. 

If waste isn't treated properly, it can lead to groundwater contamination. Avoid problems by having your tank pumped every two to five years to guarantee adequate space, and never park heavy vehicles or equipment over the top of a septic system. And be sure your tank is installed at least 100 feet from your water well.

3. Landfills

There are over 1,200 active landfills in the United States, and buried garbage at these sites can leech contaminants into the groundwater supply. This is primarily caused by precipitation and surface runoff. 

New landfills can reduce the likelihood of contamination by investing in and maintaining clay or synthetic liners, while closed landfills should be capped with clay or another impermeable material. If you operate a landfill or live near one, regular groundwater sampling should be a priority.

When you need groundwater sampling in Anchorage or anywhere in Alaska, trust GeoTek Alaska. Since 2002, they have been providing comprehensive geotechnical and geophysical services. From groundwater and soil sampling to auger drilling and well monitoring, they have the skills, technology, and experience to meet the needs of your project. Call (907) 569-5900 for a quote or visit their website to explore their services.