Hydrogeological investigations study the subsurface hydrologic and geologic parameters in a certain location. They evaluate the water-bearing levels of rocks and their filtration capability. In addition, they assess these rocks’ intrinsic ability. Hydrogeologists note the quality, type, and pressure of underground water.
Why Hydrogeological Investigations are Important?
Hydrogeological investigations are performed to determine the level of underground water. They are done before drilling a borewell to ensure water quantity and quality in an area. Underground water has been proven a better source of drinking water because of different reasons. First, scientists found that with underground water, there are lower chances of pollution. Also, because water flows through sand and stone, it undergoes natural purification. Contamination is less likely since borewells stay closed. And the underground water temperature is always at desirable levels.
Typically, hydrogeologique studies include establishing the importance of the groundwater quantity to the end-user, evaluating the groundwater quality, determining nearby boreholes, appraising the catchment area, constructing and designing boreholes, evaluating the environmental and health risks, and identify the amount of groundwater that can be expected from the area.
Kinds of Hydrogeological Surveys
Hydrogeologists may conduct these surveys on different scales, depending on the procedure’s purpose. Firstly, they will evaluate existing data from private and government agencies and perform extensive fieldwork.
They perform small-scale surveys in areas that have not undergone investigations before to collect preliminary information regarding the hydrogeological condition. These include details on the rock’s ability to retain water and the overall quality of underground water. Medium-scale surveys are carried out to collate data for hydrogeological mapping. They map water-bearing complexes and conduct a study on the rocks’ retentive capacity.
Lastly, large-scale hydrogeological surveys are performed to deal with specific problems at the engineering and operational planning stage. Hydrogeologists identify areas where water can be collected and examine underground water reserves. Both medium- and large-scale surveys including drilling procedures, measuring water flow, as well as evaluating underground water composition and quantity. Hydrogeologists may also require well construction and pumping tests in large-scale surveys.
Groundwater is a sustainable water source that could potentially solve a water crisis in some regions. But, gauging the quantity and quality of groundwater available at a site can be difficult. Hydrogeologists use techniques that can identify groundwater sources, the expected yield, and water quality. Subsurface rock layers are analysed to aid in collecting significant details on the future use of the groundwater. This makes hydrogeological studies necessary to offer dependable recommendations for borehole drilling that helps procedure quality groundwater that humans can consume.
