Groundwater science

We provide long-term groundwater-related capability in the hydrosciences for the benefit of the UK, and internationally.

Our research addresses issues related to the sustainability of water resources and quality, the impacts of environmental change on the water cycle, natural hazards in the context of groundwater, and groundwater and human health.

We undertake groundwater-related monitoring and surveys and have extensive data and information, much of which is accessible through the BGS website.

With our partners, we undertake integrated catchment studies through the development of field sites and novel monitoring technologies, the development of groundwater models, and the provision of supporting services and analytical facilities.

Research areas

Sampling dissolved gases in groundwater with an evacuated flaskShale gas and groundwater
National Baseline Methane Survey, Aquifer/Shale separation mapping...
River flowing through a lowland catchment in southern EnglandWater resources and groundwater
Groundwater flow, recharge & discharge processes ...
A field of lettuces in the UKCatchment processes
Groundwater–surface water interaction, hyporheic zone, recharge, observatories ...
Wellington boots in the rain ©iStockphoto.com/morkemanGroundwater flooding
Flooding mechanisms, controls on flooding, flood susceptibility maps ...
Boy drinking water from tap ©iStockphoto.com/jyoti thakurGroundwater and health
Origin, distribution and mobility of trace elements, pathogens ...
Output from ZOOMQ3D modelModelling groundwater systems
Object-oriented models, recharge, particle tracking ...
Hydrological Outlook mapHydrological Outlook UK
A monthly forecast for river flows and groundwater levels over the coming months...
Woman with glass of water ©iStockphoto.com/Valentin CasarsaGroundwater quality and protection
Natural baseline chemistry, pollution ...
MudcracksGroundwater and environmental change
Climate impacts, historic water levels ...
Groundwater ecologyGroundwater ecology and biodiversity
Stygobites: distribution and controls on occurrence...
People at a water pumpInternational groundwater research
Impact of climate change, changing land use ...
Water droplets on a leaf ©iStockphoto.com/unknownEnvironmental tracers and groundwater dating
CFCs, SF6, tritium, 14C, stable isotopes ...

Contact

Contact Enquiries for further information about BGS Groundwater Science