Groundwater assessment is the study and evaluation of aquifers by geologists and hydrologists to identify additional sources of groundwater for human use. It aims to protect groundwater from overexploitation and contamination. The process includes a general survey, software modeling, and water quality assessment. Groundwater assessment experts work for the government, private consultancies, and as independent contractors.
Groundwater assessment is a practice in which aquifers are studied, mapped, and evaluated for quality. This practice is usually undertaken by geologists and hydrologists. Government agencies commonly conduct groundwater assessments for the purpose of identifying additional sources of groundwater for human use, and such assessments may also be required before land can be developed, to confirm that there is enough water to support human activity on the ground. Groundwater assessment experts may work for the government, private consultancies, and as independent contractors.
Groundwater is a resource of fundamental importance. The Earth may be covered in a lot of water, but most of that water is not accessible or usable. Groundwater resources are especially scarce because groundwater can take a long time to recharge, and groundwater supplies are vulnerable to pollution and overuse. Therefore, one of the key goals of groundwater assessment is to provide protection to ensure that groundwater is not overexploited and that communities understand the importance of protecting their groundwater.
Groundwater assessments typically begin with a general survey which may include documentation of previous site surveys, aerial surveys, and foot surveys. The survey is used to create a complete picture of the aquifer and its surroundings, so that people can learn about the context in which groundwater occurs. During the inspection, you can try to identify a recharge point, search for areas where groundwater reaches the surface, identify wells and springs that are already active.
Part of the surveying process includes determining how much an aquifer holds back and how much water can be safely removed before the aquifer is compromised. Software modeling is often used for this, to create a picture of the aquifer and play around with different potential scenarios. This calculation can become very complex, as different types of use can have a different impact on an aquifer. For example, an aquifer may be able to withstand a very high usage rate, but people in higher areas of the aquifer would run out of water quickly, meaning that the rate would need to be capped to ensure people of all elevations can access the water.
The practice of groundwater assessment can also include the assessment of water quality. Groundwater contamination is a problem because it can pose a threat to human or environmental health, making identification of contamination and its sources very important to people who work with groundwater. If the water is contaminated, the groundwater assessment will be used in the process of developing a groundwater remediation plan.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
