Articles tagged with Groundwater
A study published in Toxicological Sciences suggests that exposure to fracking chemicals during pregnancy may impair female offspring's ability to fend off diseases. Fracking chemicals have been found in ground water near fracking sites and are linked to reproductive and developmental defects, hormone disruption, and immune system damage.
A recent study found that high levels of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) can harm coral reefs by causing stress and accelerating bioerosion. However, when SGD is at low levels, corals can actually thrive on the reef, suggesting a potential solution to mitigate reef degradation in urban areas like Maunalua Bay.
Study finds that 17 state oil and gas regulations leave the nation's water supply vulnerable to contamination. Groundwater resources are increasingly being used for drinking, food-crop irrigation, and household uses due to increased demand and climate change impacts.
Researchers found that artificial sweeteners in wastewater can indicate contamination of groundwater with septic system pollutants. The study suggests regular inspection and maintenance of septic systems and well water testing are necessary to ensure safe drinking water.
Researchers found high methane concentrations in groundwater near a 1965 gas well blowout site in the Netherlands, suggesting ongoing methane leakage from the reservoir. Methane oxidation reduced isotope concentrations with increasing distance from the blowout site.
The University of Texas at Arlington has extended its partnership with Apache Corporation to study the Alpine High region's surface and groundwater quality. The project aims to provide baseline data for ongoing monitoring efforts and evaluate stimulation additives to optimize oil and gas well efficiency.
Farouk El-Baz, a NASA scientist and geologist, will receive the 2018 Inamori Ethics Prize for his pioneering work in applying space images to groundwater exploration in arid lands. His research has led to the discovery of critical groundwater resources worldwide.
The Vega de Granada area in SE Spain sinks up to one centimeter per year during dry periods. This land subsidence is caused by the exploitation of the aquifer and is a concern for village residents.
Researchers at University of California - Santa Barbara found that about half of hydraulically fractured wells exist within 2 to 3 kilometers of domestic groundwater systems. The study analyzed data from nearly 27,000 wells in 14 states and suggests increased water monitoring efforts are needed to protect water quality.
Researchers at UTA have found harmful pathogenic bacteria in Texas groundwater near unconventional natural gas extraction sites, particularly resistant to antibiotics and disinfection. The studies identify novel treatments and bioremediation strategies for contaminated waters.
A new study projects that groundwater recharge will increase in the northern US and decrease in the south as climate change takes hold. The research used global climate models and found varying effects across different hydro-climatic regions, highlighting the need for better management and policy.
A new University of Washington study reveals that Don Juan Pond in Antarctica is fed by a regional deep groundwater system, not from moisture seeping down from local valley slopes. This finding has significant implications for understanding the formation of similar environments on Mars.
A study by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that over 30% of rural groundwater wells contained artificial sweeteners, indicating contamination from local septic systems. This suggests that human wastewater is affecting shallow groundwater in the area, posing a health risk to aquatic organisms.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a novel gene cluster in Mycobacterium dioxanotrophicus PH-06 that expresses an enzyme capable of initiating dioxane biodegradation. This finding could lead to the development of a cost-effective tool for treating contaminated groundwater sites.
Researchers from Duke University and Ohio State University found that high levels of molybdenum in Wisconsin drinking water wells come from natural sources, not coal ash. The study used forensic isotopic 'fingerprinting' and age-dating techniques to determine the contamination's origin.
A 70-year analysis of Danish data reveals a clear connection between nitrogen utilization and groundwater quality. The study found that reduced nitrogen applications lead to lower nitrate concentrations in groundwater, suggesting that economic growth can be achieved without negative environmental impacts.
Researchers used satellite data to track groundwater levels in Silicon Valley, discovering the aquifer rebounded quickly after a severe drought due to aggressive conservation measures. The study lays groundwork for low-cost monitoring of subterranean water reserves globally.
Researchers warn that US East Coast cities are under threat from more frequent and severe flooding due to the region's slow subsidence into the Atlantic Ocean. Human activities such as groundwater extraction and reservoir creation have accelerated this process, with some areas sinking at a rate of up to three millimeters per year.
A recent study by University of California, Riverside researchers found high levels of manganese in groundwater wells in the US and three Asian countries, exceeding World Health Organization guidelines. The study suggests public health officials should monitor manganese levels to ensure safe drinking water, particularly for children.
A comprehensive study found high arsenic concentrations in groundwater throughout the Indus Plain, threatening public health. The researchers recommend urgent action, including testing and treating affected wells, to address this significant global health risk.
Researchers discover high arsenic concentrations in groundwater supplies along the Indus River, posing a significant health risk to millions. The study suggests irrigation practices and soil pH may contribute to arsenic enrichment, highlighting the need for urgent testing and mitigation measures.
A University of Kansas researcher found that well owners in Kansas use more water during droughts due to their ability to irrigate crops. Unlike non-well owners, who cut back on water usage, well owners tap into the aquifer to sustain crops during dry years.
Researchers have successfully used probiotic bacteria to boost the speed and effectiveness of natural processes that capture and remove pollutants from soil. The technology has shown promising results in cleaning up contaminated groundwater with trichloroethylene, a common pollutant found in industrial areas.
Hydrogeologist David Boutt has been named the Birdsall-Dreiss Distinguished Lecturer for 2018 by the Geological Society of America's Hydrogeology Division. He will give a 12-month national and international speaking tour, including stops in Asia, Europe, and South America.
Analysis of caves in Israel reveals they formed through dissolution by rising groundwater, originating from highlands and deep faults. The findings have implications for understanding far-field groundwater systems and the possible circulation of fluids, dating back to the Oligocene-early Miocene periods.
A recent Penn State study analyzed the fate of seven emerging contaminants in wastewater treatment plants and groundwater wells. The results showed that soil generally acts as an effective biogeochemical filter, removing most contaminants except during snowmelt events.
Researchers at the University of Illinois used a new technique called eDNA to detect and monitor the Hay's Spring amphipod, an endangered species found in seepage springs in Rock Creek Park. The method successfully detected the creature's DNA in water samples from three sites where it had been previously seen.
Researchers propose that Mars' Lyot valley networks were carved by meltwater produced when hot ejecta interacted with an icy surface. The team estimates thousands of cubic kilometers of meltwater were generated, enough to shape the valleys.
Researchers at UNH found that rising sea levels pose a new hazard to seacoast roads, even two miles from the shore, due to groundwater rise. The study identifies sections of NH roads as vulnerable to deterioration and closure without improvements.
A new study reveals that groundwater springs in Africa played a crucial role in the survival and migration of our ancient ancestors. By mapping persistent springs, researchers found that these water sources acted as service stations, allowing people to access vital water supplies during times of drought.
The High Plains aquifer is a critical water source for US agriculture, but its long-term viability is threatened by diminishing groundwater levels. The authors argue that good management practices can extend the aquifer's lifespan, but require collective effort and cooperation across disciplines and political divides.
Natural and artificial beaver dams can alter stream temperatures to benefit temperature-sensitive salmonid species. Beaver dams increase surface water storage, reducing high temperatures in streams.
A new study by Duke University researchers found that fracking wastewater has polluted surface water in northwestern West Virginia. Despite this, groundwater remains untouched, according to the three-year study that tested 112 drinking wells.
A new study by University of Guelph researchers has found that methane gas leaking from energy wells can travel extensively through groundwater, posing an explosion risk and degrading water quality. The findings also suggest that methane is 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat when in the atmosphere.
Moderate shifts in typical Indian diets could reduce groundwater use and benefit population health. The study identifies possible changes to consume more fruits and vegetables with lower water demands, such as oranges and apples.
A new study reveals that 11% of global non-renewable groundwater is used to produce internationally traded crops, with countries such as Pakistan, the US, and India being major exporters. This unsustainable practice poses a risk to food security and long-term sustainability.
Researchers developed a novel method to detect environmental DNA in groundwater, extending the known range of the olm by discovering 12 new sites. This breakthrough allows for better conservation management and protection of this globally threatened species.
The Namib Desert relies heavily on groundwater and soil water to sustain its unique biodiversity, with non-ocean-derived fog accounting for over half of the total fog
Researchers mapped saltwater intrusion in the Monterey Bay coastline using ERT, providing a cheaper alternative to drilling 'sentinel' wells. The study aims to improve groundwater models and help local water managers make informed decisions about pumping groundwater.
A team of international researchers has developed a new approach to calculate groundwater recharge rates, significantly improving estimates for 560 million people in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. By accounting for subsurface heterogeneity, their model produces more realistic estimates than existing global models.
A new study has found that large-scale hydrologic models can be improved to provide more realistic groundwater recharge estimates. The research team compared two models and showed that accounting for subsurface heterogeneity leads to greater estimates of groundwater recharge, which is essential for securing sustainable water supplies.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have identified a Martian valley with evidence of recent flooding, indicating water may have been present near Mars' equator in the not-too-distant past. This finding makes this location a potential geological target for detecting past life forms on the Red Planet.
Researchers at Utah State University have developed a genetic tool that makes it easier to identify bacteria responsible for releasing toxic forms of arsenic in groundwater. The new primer allows for more accurate detection of arsenate-reducing microorganisms, which can help reduce the prevalence of arsenic contamination worldwide.
Researchers found that responses to climate variations can be detected in deep groundwater aquifers within a year, suggesting an intermediate connection between precipitation and groundwater levels. Pumping of aquifers may drive this rapid response, controlled by crop water demand and agricultural industry activities.
A recent study found that changing rainfall patterns are the key driver of changes in groundwater storage in India, rather than pumping. Groundwater withdrawals have increased tenfold since the 1950s, but variability in monsoons is the main factor driving changes in groundwater levels.
Researchers studied groundwater hydrology of proglacial valleys in the Andes, finding that 29% of stream discharge comes from groundwater. The study aimed to improve hydrological modeling of proglacial catchments throughout South America.
New research predicts that aquifers in parts of India, southern Europe, and the US could be depleted within 2040-2060, affecting up to 1.8 billion people. Heavy irrigation regions in dry climates face the greatest threat of depletion.
For the first time, boron has been identified on the surface of Mars, indicating potential for long-term habitable groundwater in the ancient past. The discovery was made using NASA's Curiosity rover's Chemistry and Camera instrument.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered a correlation between groundwater helium levels and stress on inner rock layers near the epicenter of earthquakes. The study found that high-stress areas had higher helium-4 levels in groundwater, suggesting a potential risk indicator for earthquakes.
Hawai'i researchers found that high levels of nutrients in coastal groundwater correlate with reduced reef health and increased algae blooms. This study identifies Kahului Wastewater Reclamation Facility as a major source of pollution, threatening nearshore ecosystems.
A new study has found heightened concentrations of common substances in drinking water near fracking sites in Pennsylvania. The researchers suggest underground disturbances that could be harbingers of eventual water-quality problems.
A Colorado State University team is testing a promising new way to clean up PFCs using electrolysis-based technology that harnesses electricity-induced chemical reactions in the groundwater. The method transforms organic compounds into benign substances, offering a game-changing solution for environmental cleanup.
Scientists found that nearly 90% of study wells had detectable levels of naturally occurring Cr(VI) in groundwater. Chromium is prevalent in the Piedmont region and similar rocks worldwide.
A Duke University study reveals that over 90% of water wells in North Carolina are contaminated with hexavalent chromium, a carcinogen. The contamination is attributed to the natural leaching of chromium from aquifer rocks in the Piedmont region.
The Colorado River Delta has benefited from recent engineered spring floods, with bird diversity increasing by 43% in restoration areas. Groundwater recharge has also improved, recharging the aquifer for irrigation and benefiting native plant species.
A new study from Columbia University and MIT found that large-scale groundwater pumping is contaminating aquifers in Southeast Asia with high levels of arsenic, posing a significant risk to human health. The researchers discovered clear patterns of contamination that can help farmers and communities locate lower-risk sites for wells.
A new study found that well owners in Kansas are significantly more aware of water supplies and policies, prioritizing conservation and issues related to the High Plains Aquifer. This research has broader implications for environmental stewardship and groundwater management.
Researchers at Clemson University are launching a new study using their developed 'microcosm' method to investigate how solvents degrade in rock, which could help determine the need for costly cleanups. The study aims to simulate groundwater flow and test how much solvent is released from rock cores at different sites.
Researchers have mapped underground drainage systems connecting fresh groundwater and seawater, highlighting vulnerable sites to saltwater intrusion. The study identifies areas where drinking water is at risk due to ocean contamination or saltwater invasion.
A new study identifies distinct hotspots in the US coastline where freshwater discharge from underground water sources can contaminate coastal waters. These hotspots, which account for half of all freshwater discharge, are particularly vulnerable to groundwater-borne contamination and affect 12% of the coastline.