Groundwater sampling and monitoring

Similar to soil sampling, groundwater sampling events are essential technical procedures utilized to characterize a site's environmental health. During assessment activities, monitoring wells (small-diameter plastic wells) are strategically installed in and around a site. These monitoring wells create a direct conduit to the aquifer (water table) that may be susceptible to contamination.

A critical protocol in groundwater sampling is that stale, standing water should not be sampled. It is imperative to purge existing groundwater from a monitoring well to allow fresh, representative water to enter the well for collection. This ensures a much more accurate account of the actual subsurface conditions. Furthermore, data from these wells is used to determine the groundwater flow direction, which is the key factor in predicting how and where contamination might migrate over time. To maintain site integrity, new disposable gloves and dedicated sampling devices are used for every collection to prevent cross-contamination and ensure worker safety.

Groundwater sampling and monitoring are integral components of site evaluations and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESA). These methods provide essential data on water quality and hydrogeological flow, which are crucial for safeguarding public health and ensuring compliance with O. Reg. 153/04.

• Installation of Monitoring Wells: We strategically install monitoring wells to serve as access points to underlying aquifers.
• Significance of Freshwater Sampling: We prioritize purging stagnant water to ensure the samples collected are truly representative of the current groundwater conditions.
• Determining Flow Direction: Analyzing groundwater elevations and conditions allows us to determine natural flow patterns, which is essential for assessing potential contaminant migration.
• Preventing Cross-Contamination: We strictly adhere to sterile protocols, using fresh gloves and equipment for each sample to ensure data reliability.

Groundwater is one of Ontario's most vital natural resources, used extensively for drinking water, agriculture, and industrial operations. Regular sampling and monitoring are essential for the early detection of environmental threats:

• Industrial Contamination: Factories and manufacturing plants can release pollutants that may seep into the water table over time. Sampling allows for timely intervention before contamination spreads.
• Leaking Fuel Storage Tanks: Underground storage tanks (USTs) can corrode, releasing petroleum hydrocarbons into the groundwater. Early detection through sampling simplifies the Remediation process and reduces costs.
• Agricultural Runoff: Sampling helps monitor the impact of pesticides and fertilizers that can infiltrate groundwater systems and degrade water quality.
• Public Health and Safety: Regular testing ensures that water remains safe from harmful nitrates, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and heavy metals.
• Preventing Long-Term Damage: Monitoring flow patterns allows for a quicker response, preventing pollutants from reaching nearby rivers, lakes, or private wells.

We understand the complexities of Ontario’s environmental regulations and provide reliable results for businesses and property owners province-wide.

• Certified Engineering Firm: We are authorized by the Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO), and our technical reports are signed and stamped by a Qualified Person (QP).
• Comprehensive Services: We offer a full range of environmental solutions, from initial site evaluation to Remediation and Cleanup.
• Reliable Equipment: We use proven monitoring methods to ensure accurate data collection and smooth project execution.
• Timely and Efficient: Whether you need a rapid assessment for a property transaction or ongoing industrial monitoring, we work to meet your deadlines.
• Clear Reporting: We provide transparent, straightforward data and insights to help you understand your site's status.

If you’re concerned about potential groundwater contamination or need accurate monitoring for your project, Specialized Onsite Services Inc. is here to help. Contact us today at 613-354-3553, email us at info@soservices.ca, or fill out our contact form to learn more about how we can assist you with your environmental needs.

We provide Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring services throughout Eastern Ontario: Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring Kingston, Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring Peterborough, Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring Belleville, Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring Ottawa, Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring Cornwall and Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring Brockville.