This 2-credit-hour workshop is offered within the framework of VARIABLE TITLE WORKSHOP IN GEOLOGY: GEOL-40093/60093/70093

Objective

The objective of this field workshop is to provide the student field experience in hydrogeology, involving various methods of in-situ aquifer testing.

Timing and site

The 6-days workshop is offered immediately following the end of Spring Semester at the Department of Geology, McGilvrey Hall, Room 234, and at the site of Kent State University Hydrogeology Experimental Well-Field; Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242

Description

Precise estimate of hydraulic parameters is an essential component of any hydrogeological project. Determination of hydraulic parameters for the aquifer and confining/semi-confining layers is necessary for assessment of ground water resource potential in a given area, as well as for contaminant characterization studies and designing site remediation programs. Coefficients of transmissivity and storativity of aquifers, as well as vertical hydraulic conductivity and storativity in confining and semi-confining formations, are commonly estimated from interpretation of well-hydraulic tests, including pumping tests and slug tests. During well-hydraulic tests changes in ground water level are recorded either manually or using network of down-hole pressure transducers in conjunction with multi-channel data logers.

This workshop provides hands-on experience in designing and conducting well-hydraulic tests, using state-of-the-art equipment, test data retrieval and interpretation. It will involve variety of well-hydraulic tests conducted at Kent State University Experimental Well-Field, using the latest in data acquisition equipment provided by In-Situ, Inc. of Laramie, Wyoming, as well as interpretation of the data using computer software at the Department of Geology Computer Lab. Kent State University Experimental Well-Field is a newly established facility consisting of three production and seven observation wells. Some of the wells are completed in a phreatic aquifer of the glacial sediments, and other are in the semi-confined bedrock aquifer. All production wells are equipped with submersible pumps. The data from pumping and slug tests generated during the course of the workshop will serve as the data base for interpretation and preparation of a comprehensive report to be prepared by each participant for submission during the first week of the following Fall Semester.