Alpine Hydrogeological Services

Completing hydrogeological assessments in remote alpine regions for our mineral exploration and mining clients is a welcome challenge. Recently, Waterline was retained to complete a field program consisting of developing, testing, and sampling deep (>50 m) 2” monitoring wells installed at a remote alpine site in northern British Columbia. Waterline worked closely with our client to design and execute a successful field program capable of achieving the client’s objectives under winter conditions. A heli-portable monitoring well pumping system was assembled, including battery powered electric submersible pumps, dataloggers and water sampling equipment.

During well development, discharge from the wells was continuously monitored to ensure the monitoring wells were properly developed. Flow rate, visual observations and field measured water quality parameters were all monitored throughout the development program. By closely monitoring the wells during development, the volume of water required to be pumped from the wells was greatly reduced, while still achieving full and complete well development. Upon completion of well development, Waterline staff collected a full suite of water samples for laboratory analysis, including the field filtration of samples, to ensure the best possible results.

Groundwater levels were recorded using manual measurements and dataloggers, and water level drawdown and recovery datasets were used to calculate the hydraulic conductivity of the water-bearing units. Following an assessment of the hydrogeological and geochemical properties of the aquifers, Waterline was able to successfully support a preliminary assessment of the alpine groundwater flow system.

Local and regional groundwater flow systems in an alpine, mountain-valley type, setting can be complex. With offices in Smithers, Prince George, Salmon Arm and Vancouver Island, Waterline’s team of experienced hydrogeologists across BC are a short drive away.