Our section is part of the Investigations and Monitoring Group and we deliver services focusing on groundwater quality and quantity (the amount of water available for allocation).
Our scientists and field staff collect monitoring data on groundwater levels and pressures and the chemistry of groundwater. Some limited data are also collected on recharge. Data are used by Environment Canterbury staff from across the organisation and by consultants, researchers, and other interested parties. We use the data to assess the “health” of the region’s aquifer systems, particularly to identify long-term trends.
We also undertake investigations to assess the nature and extent of groundwater quality issues and to assess the impacts of groundwater abstractions on aquifer systems. Increasingly, we work with the Surface Water Resources and Ecosystems Section to undertake joint investigations into surface and groundwater interactions. For some of our investigations we produce technical guidelines and tools to help our staff and others (such as consultants) to collect, analyse and use groundwater data.
Our internal customers include Customer Services, Consents, Planning, and Consents Monitoring and Compliance. These sections ask for expert advice on a range of technical matters.