2.

7 Groundwater Observation Wells

Geotechnical engineers are often called upon to provide recommendations for subsurface
drainage. Most often this occurs in connection with design of below ground structures
such as basements or below level parking garages. Decisions based on the location of the
groundwater level can have a significant impact on design, construction costs and long-
term serviceability of the structure. Therefore the engineer must have a reasonable degree
of confidence in the groundwater level and its seasonal fluctuation.

Measuring the groundwater level in a borehole at completion does not always provide a
satisfactory measurement. Seldom are boreholes left open to allow readings after a 24-
hour period. The type of soil and drilling method used influences the credibility of the
groundwater level measured at the completion of the boring

Slow draining soils generally do not provide enough time for the groundwater level to
stabilize. When hollow flight augers are used to advance the borehole, the water level
measured at the completion of the boring can be lower. When wash boring techniques
are used, the water level can be higher than the actual groundwater level. These
considerations might not be significant if the groundwater level is located well below the
proposed bottom (ground floor) of the structure. But if the groundwater lies within a few
feet of the structure, then the need for a more accurate groundwater level measurement is
warranted. Thus a groundwater observation well can be installed to allow long-term
measurement of the groundwater level.

Basic Geotechnical Engineering for Non-Geotechnical Engineers

©Copyright 2010 Richard P. Weber
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