Ground-Water Quality Monitoring

The Chester County ground-water quality monitoring program began in 1980 as a cooperative program with the Chester County Water Resources Authority and the Chester County Health Department. The objectives of the program are: (1) to provide data on ground-water quality near suspected sources of contamination; (2) to informally monitor ground-water quality near known sources of contamination to determine extent of contaminant migration or change in concentration of contaminants; and (3) to provide ground-water data on a regional scale or topical issue. Generally, ground-water samples from about 25 wells are collected and analyzed by USGS each summer. Sites and constituents vary year to year dependent on issues relevant to county concerns. Through this program, data collected on volatile organic compounds, metals, and other contaminants in ground water near landfills, industrial areas, old military facilities, and other sources has assisted in the identification and subsequent remedial actions at Superfund and other sites in the county.