What is Mike Howley's role in New Hampshire's groundwater monitoring?

Mike Howley, a Senior Geoscientist, manages the New Hampshire groundwater level monitoring program and its network of wells.

How does New Hampshire's groundwater data impact national drought monitoring?

Data from New Hampshire's monitoring wells helps inform the National Weather Service's U.S. Drought Monitor, assessing drought extent across the country.

What challenges do New Hampshire scientists face in monitoring wells?

Challenges include relocating wells due to development and ensuring data accuracy, especially in extreme cold that affects automated equipment.

Home / Environment / Hidden Waters: Unlocking New Hampshire's Groundwater Secrets

Hidden Waters: Unlocking New Hampshire's Groundwater Secrets

23 Dec

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Summary

New Hampshire monitors groundwater levels via a network of wells.
Data informs crucial drought monitoring at national and federal levels.
Relocating wells due to development poses a significant challenge.

Hidden Waters: Unlocking New Hampshire's Groundwater Secrets

Beneath New Hampshire, a hidden network of groundwater plays a critical role, yet knowledge of its extent is surprisingly limited. Senior Geoscientist Mike Howley of the New Hampshire Geological Survey manages a network of dozens of monitoring wells, gathering essential data about these vital underground water systems.

This collected data is instrumental in informing federal agencies, including the National Weather Service's U.S. Drought Monitor, which assesses drought conditions nationwide. The monitoring process involves regular, precise measurements, sometimes under challenging conditions like the 20-degree weather experienced on December 22nd.

Scientists face obstacles such as relocating wells due to development and ensuring data continuity, which requires monitoring new and old wells concurrently for at least a year. This meticulous work is essential for understanding groundwater's response to climate shifts and ensuring water availability.