Groundwater monitoring

The USGS works in collaboration with partners to monitor groundwater levels using the framework of the National Groundwater Monitoring Network (NGWMN). This collaborative groundwater network of Federal, State, and local agency data providers was authorized by the SECURE Water Act in 2009 and aims to build and refine a national network of wells that meet specific criteria related to quality, accessibility, density, and frequency of measurement criteria. Within the NGWMN, the USGS provides Federal support for a Climate Response Network (CRN) outfitted with continuous, real-time instrumentation that is designed to serve as a measure of groundwater conditions during drought and provide long-term groundwater levels.

Stakeholder Quotes

“The National Groundwater Monitoring Program has allowed NH Geological Survey to provide New Hampshire’s Drought Management team better support for decision making.”
Gregory Barker, New Hampshire Geological Survey

“NGWMN funding helps ensure that Maryland will have reliable and accurate groundwater-level monitoring into the foreseeable future.” 
Andrew Staley, Maryland Geological Survey, Department of Natural Resources

“Participation in the NGWMN has significantly improved our network and our ability to disseminate groundwater data to the public.”
Brooke Czwartacki, South Carolina Department of Natural Resource

“Participation in the NGWMN allows the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology to leverage limited state funds to upgrade monitoring infrastructure and improve the integrity of monitoring sites thereby improving the quality of data provided.”
John LaFave, Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology