Aims

The aim of the module is to:-

* Explain the principles of ground water systems analysis.
* Provide a robust, practical introduction to the main analysis techniques used to assess the quantity of ground water resources.
* Introduce methods of presenting and interpreting natural groundwater quality data in the context of ground water resource assessment.

The Groundwater Assessment module provides students with the background, understanding, and techniques to assess groundwater resources using a wide variety of information. Basic principles start from the point of geological mapping, which is re-interpreted using hydrostratigraphic classification to help to define hydrogeological units. Approaches used to develop these into evaluations of groundwater resource potential include field and desk reconnaissance, and analysis of surface geophysics. Understanding of recharge rates is developed and methods of determining physical aquifer properties using borehole information are introduced. A brief introduction to methods of presenting natural groundwater chemistry provides the basis for its use within an integrated approach to resource evaluation.

An introduction to thermogeology (ground source heat and deep geothermal energy) provides a grounding in theory and some practical applications of this rapidly developing subject area.

Outline Of Syllabus

- Introduction to groundwater systems and groundwater resource evaluation
- Hydrostratigraphy
- Hydrogeological mapping
- Aquifer boundaries and groundwater-surface water interactions
- Desk studies and preliminary reconnaissance
- Surface geophysics
- Introduction to drilling and determination of aquifer properties by test-pumping
- Groundwater recharge assessment
- Natural inorganic hydrogeochemistry, presentation and interpretation of data
- Groundwater sampling & monitoring strategies
- Key principles of groundsource heat and geothermal energy.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

In order to provide the correct blend of theoretical background and hands-on experience as envisaged in the learning outcomes, the module is designed to be run as an intensive one-week block course made up of lectures and practicals. The substantial private study element will be necessary to complete the more demanding practical exercises and to consolidate all aspects of learning.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

This module covers practical application of specific techniques, and the development of ability to bring these together into integrated assessments of groundwater resource potential. A formal exam will ensure that a range of basic knowledge and skills can be tested. The coursework assessment is designed to bring different components together and to develop and test the students' ability to assess a broad range of information.