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Monitoring Groundwater

NRTG’s MicroCourses offer a dynamic training pathway that’s as flexible as it is enriching to build expertise. Our Monitoring Groundwater course, delivered over four hours, provides a practical and accessible introduction to the essential tools and techniques for groundwater monitoring in wetland, aquifer, and restoration settings. It’s designed to give participants a solid foundation in groundwater data collection and interpretation — ready for immediate field application.

Monitoring groundwater is a cornerstone of hydrologic studies and wetland management, offering insight into water table fluctuations, recharge and discharge patterns, and site-level hydrology. This MicroCourse introduces the use and installation of groundwater wells and standpipe piezometers, along with both manual and electronic methods of water-level measurement. Participants will also explore how to record, interpret, and apply groundwater data to environmental projects. The course is suitable for environmental professionals, technicians, and resource managers seeking to strengthen their groundwater monitoring skillset.

Topics covered will include:

  • The role of monitoring wells and piezometers in wetland and groundwater studies
  • Components and installation of standpipe piezometers, including sand backfill and bentonite seals
  • Manual water-level measurement with steel tape (chalk, hold, cut techniques)
  • Electronic methods: electric tapes, siphon gauges, and pressure transducers
  • Recording and interpreting groundwater data (e.g., hydrographs, recharge/discharge patterns)
  • Introduction to groundwater sampling methods, including bailers and pumps

Course will be 4 hours long.

Dr. Jenny Hill PMP, OALA, PLEng

Consultant, Researcher, and Educator

Jenny is an experienced consultant, researcher, and educator specializing in green infrastructure, hydrology, water quality, ecological restoration and climate adaptation. She has worked across public, private, and academic sectors, advising on over 100 projects related to stormwater policy, restoration monitoring, and nature-based solutions.

Currently Research Scientist with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Jenny also conducts research on remote sensing for wetland restoration. She has authored industry white papers, including Natural Infrastructure in a Changing Climate.