Monitoring
Managing groundwater flooding fundamentally requires a good knowledge of groundwater levels. This can be realised through appropriate measurement and recording, particularly during periods of exceptionally high groundwater levels that could lead to flooding. Traditionally, such measurements are achieved through a network of boreholes drilled to depths to intercept groundwater in different aquifers.
The groundwater monitoring workstream aims to establish a groundwater level monitoring network to provide information to communities that are at risk of groundwater flooding. It will also provide the data that will underpin the modelling and mapping of groundwater flood risk, and the development of a flood warning system.
The workstream is being delivered in phases. Work began on phase 1 in 2021, with a review of the current status of the groundwater level monitoring networks within the focus community areas and more broadly across the areas on unconfined Chalk and permeable superficial deposits. This included established monitoring networks operated by project partners such as the Environment Agency, and included consideration of where monitoring is being undertaken, how often, and the availability of the monitoring data that was being collected.
Since then, in addition to monitoring groundwater levels, other approaches have also been reviewed. These include: monitoring flows within foul sewers and how this can inform the understanding of groundwater infiltration into local sewer networks; monitoring water levels in highway drainage networks; and how the recording and reporting of groundwater flood incidents can be improved.
In 2023, the second phase of work began. It aims to improve the groundwater level monitoring network across the Chalk and permeable superficial deposits by implementing measures that were identified through the first phase of work. This includes consideration of new monitoring boreholes or installation of new equipment to provide real-time groundwater level information.
Alongside this work this year, new and innovative approaches to measuring groundwater levels are being explored. This includes new technologies and methods such as investigating whether sensor-mounted drones can be used to detect the groundwater levels across a wider area. A number of proof-of-concept trial surveys are being undertaken.
Find out more about Project Groundwater
