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.