NWDTW 2024

All methods of taking groundwater-level measurements have uncertainty associated with them, and these uncertainties can be numerous and compounded. Uncertainty sources can be the instrument used for measuring the groundwater level, the equipment used to validate the measured groundwater level, conditions in and near the well, environmental conditions, and even the person measuring the water level. Variables that can affect uncertainty can include temperature, measurement depth, tape stretching or other irregularities like kinks, and well access and construction. Some sources of uncertainty are identified and quantified through testing and laboratory analysis however, some uncertainty can be subjective and require a hydrographers best judgement when in the field. In this brief presentation, various sources and variables of uncertainty will be presented with a discussion to follow on other experiences with uncertainty in groundwater-level data collection.