Aquifer Testing and Pumping Tests
GeoServices routinely completes aquifer tests (pumping tests or pump tests) to determine the safe yield of a well or an aquifer. Aquifer tests are needed to satisfy requirements of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC), the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to ensure safe, sustainable, and reliable water supplies.
Aquifer Testing Regulatory Requirements
Prior to conducting an aquifer test, some or all of the following documents may need to be prepared, depending on the agencies involved:
- Pre-Drilling Plan
- Aquifer Testing Plan
- Hydrogeologic Description
- Ground Water Availability Analysis
- Monitoring Plan
GeoServices completes all of the required documents for testing and works with the appropriate regulatory agency to design pumping tests to meet regulatory needs while balancing budgetary concerns. GeoServices strives to create scientifically sound and defensible plans and aquifer tests that are also fiscally responsible.
Aquifer Testing Implementation
Upon approval of the appropriate aquifer testing plan, GeoServices implements the monitoring aspects of the plan, which involves placing data loggers in monitoring and pumping wells, building weirs or other stream flow measurement devices and gauging, and installing testing equipment. GeoServices utilizes the results of all of the monitoring data, the stepped drawdown test (step test) and constant rate test to develop a Hydrogeologic Report that documents site conditions and aquifer characteristics. The Hydrogeologic Report is completed to support and document the requested withdrawal.