Backup Coverage In Groundwater Monitoring Networks

Computer simulations were used to test the contaminant-detection capability of alternative groundwater monitoring networks near a landfill. Double-locus networks, with backup coverage afforded by the downgradient locus, were constructed by shifting wells hydraulically upgradient or downgradient in a single-locus network. Single-and double-locus networks had the same average distance, measured parallel to groundwater flow, between wells and the landfill. On average, single-locus networks outperformed their double-locus counterparts. Some double-locus networks outperformed their single-locus counterpart, but by less than 1%. The most effective networks employed two loci, with the backup locus containing interior wells, including one well hydraulically downgradient of the landfill's corner. The least effective networks also employed two loci, but with the backup locus containing exterior wells.

Keywords:

• Landfills
• Groundwater Monitoring
• Backup Coverage