Groundwater Sampling
Summary
Groundwater sampling is the collection of groundwater from monitoring wells or bores for laboratory analysis to assess water quality and the presence of contaminants. It is a core component of contaminated land investigations, groundwater monitoring programs and remediation assessment.
Groundwater sampling provides data used to evaluate environmental risk, support planning approvals and demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.
Definition
Groundwater sampling involves the collection of groundwater samples using established field methods designed to obtain representative water quality data. Samples are typically collected from installed monitoring wells following purging, stabilisation and field measurements.
Sampling is undertaken in accordance with a sampling and analysis plan and is supported by chain of custody procedures to ensure data integrity.
Why Groundwater Sampling Matters
From an environmental and health perspective, groundwater can act as a pathway for contaminant migration and exposure. Groundwater sampling allows contaminants to be identified, quantified and assessed against relevant criteria.
Groundwater sampling is also critical for understanding site conditions. Results are used to define the extent of contamination, assess trends over time and inform decisions regarding remediation, dewatering or long-term management.
From a regulatory perspective, groundwater sampling data is often relied upon by councils, regulators and auditors to assess site suitability, verify remediation outcomes and support development approvals.
When Groundwater Sampling Is Typically Required
Groundwater sampling is commonly required where:
Contaminated land investigations identify potential groundwater impacts
A Detailed Site Investigation is undertaken
Groundwater monitoring programs are established
Dewatering or excavation below the groundwater table is proposed
Remediation effectiveness needs to be assessed
Validation is required to confirm site suitability
Sampling frequency and scope are typically risk-based and site-specific.
Typical Groundwater Sampling Activities
Groundwater sampling programs may include:
Measurement of groundwater levels and field parameters
Purging and stabilisation of monitoring wells
Collection of groundwater samples for laboratory analysis
Quality assurance and quality control sampling
Documentation and chain of custody procedures
Interpretation and reporting of results
Methods are selected to minimise disturbance and ensure representative samples.
Legislative and Regulatory Context
Groundwater sampling is undertaken in accordance with environmental protection legislation, planning requirements and recognised industry guidance.
In New South Wales, groundwater sampling is commonly required under contaminated land frameworks, EPA guidance and development consent conditions. Regulators expect sampling to be appropriately designed, documented and defensible.
How We Can Help
Confluence Environmental undertakes groundwater sampling as part of contaminated land investigations, monitoring programs and remediation projects.
Our services typically include:
Design of groundwater sampling programs
Field sampling and management of monitoring wells
Laboratory coordination and data review
Interpretation of results against relevant criteria
Clear reporting to support regulatory review and approvals
We focus on delivering groundwater data that is reliable, representative and suitable for decision-making.
Related Terms and Concepts
Groundwater Monitoring
Groundwater Investigation
Detailed Site Investigation
Sampling and Analysis Plan
Chain of Custody
Contaminated Land
Site Validation