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The Applied Hydrogeology course provides postgraduate students in engineering geology and environmental science with a sound understanding of the nature and occurrence of groundwater, various techniques for resource evaluation, contaminant transport issues, and a brief introduction to groundwater modelling. The course is an integrated one, developing both geological aspects of groundwater occurrence and chemistry, as well as pragmatic methods for quantifying flow parameters and aquifer characteristics.
Applied Hydrogeology is taught in the Second Semester, and aims to provide postgraduate students in engineering geology and environmental science with a sound understanding of the nature and occurrence of groundwater, various techniques for resource evaluation, contaminant transport issues, and a brief introduction to groundwater modelling. The course is an integrated one, developing both geological aspects of groundwater occurrence and chemistry, as well as pragmatic methods for quantifying flow parameters and aquifer characteristics. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of a water-budget approach to groundwater resource evaluation and management, and to pump test methods and selection. This part of the course is taught in the first six weeks (Term 3). Groundwater chemistry and quality, and the nature and investigation of groundwater contamination problems comprise the second part of the course (Term 4). This provides an overview of a subject that is assuming increasing importance for pollution control and site remediation. ContentThe course content has been selected to cover the basic principles of the subject, and to introduce practical and relevant techniques for professional practice in the field of hydrogeology. Case studies are used to emphasise underlying principles without requiring advanced mathematical or computing skills, although a basic knowledge of algebra is assumed.Field and laboratory methods are emphasised in the course, and in-term exercises develop basic skills in hydrogeological data collection and analysis. If circumstances permit, brief site visits will be carried out during the course to familiarise students with drilling and related methods in groundwater studies. Seminar sessions are scheduled from 2-4 pm on Wednesdays in Room 210, Department of Geological Sciences.
Students successfully completing this course will:Have a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of groundwater occurrence and recharge as a basis for resource evaluation and utilisation.Be familiar with the hydrogeological controls of groundwater storage and flow in both unconsolidated (alluvial) and bedrock aquifer systems.Have an overview of groundwater chemistry, its evolution in response to migration, and the important determinants of potability.Be able to conduct and interpret pump tests in simple unconsolidated aquifer systems, and understand procedures for groundwater resource evaluation.Have a clear knowledge of the mechanisms and processes involved in multi-phase flow in aquifer systems.Be aware of the principal types of groundwater contamination, and methods for their evaluation including modelling. Be generally familiar with techniques for assessing and mitigating the effects of aquifer contamination, and groundwater quality remediation.
Subject to approval of the Head of Department.
In 2006 this course is offered in Semester 2.
David Bell
Domenico, P. A. , Schwartz, F. W; Physical and chemical hydrogeology ; Wiley, 1990.
Fetter, C. W; Applied hydrogeology ; 4th ed; Prentice Hall, 2001.
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Domestic fee $573.00
International Postgraduate fees
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Geological Sciences .