Groundwater Monitoring & Sampling
Sustainable groundwater management is essential to protect water resources, support long-term development, and ensure regulatory compliance.
HGEC has extensive experience planning and executing groundwater monitoring programs for municipal, industrial and mining clients. Our teams collect defensible, regulator-ready datasets across a wide range of aquifer conditions, bores and access constraints
Modelling Methodology
- Low-flow (micro-purge) sampling: We use dedicated or portable low-flow pumps with inline flow cells to stabilise field parameters (pH/EC/DO/redox/temperature) before sample capture, minimising drawdown. We have a proven low-flow capability to 1,100 m depth, including high-head deployments and narrow-diameter completions.
- Actuator sampling for high-sediment bores: Where turbid, sand-producing or low-yield bores preclude conventional pumping, we deploy positive-displacement actuator samplers (e.g., pneumatic or gas-lift actuated bailers). These systems limit shear and entrained fines, reduce purge volumes, and improve representativeness in unstable screens.
- Grab sampling (screening and compliance): For bores with stable chemistry and low turbidity or where a screening round is warranted we collect grab samples using low-disturbance devices and dedicated tubing, following strict handling times and preservation protocols.
- QA/QC and governance: Programs are designed and executed to AS/NZS 5667 (Water quality—Sampling) and aligned with EPA/NEPM guidance. We implement chain-of-custody, field duplicates, rinsate/equipment blanks, trip blanks for volatiles, and calibration/verification records for all meters. Cool-chain logistics and laboratory NATA accreditation are standard.
- Reporting and deliverables: You receive bore registers, stabilisation logs, field sheets, calibration records, laboratory CoCs/CoAs, and a concise data quality assessment. Results are summarised against project-specific criteria, with clear statements on sampling representativeness and any limitations.
Why HGEC?
With more than 24 years of experience in hydrogeology and environmental consulting, HGEC delivers clear, practical, and scientifically defensible groundwater advice. Our independent approach ensures groundwater resources are protected while enabling clients to plan with confidence and certainty.
