Groundwater Levels and the Hopington AB Aquifer

So far this spring, the area has seen less rain than usual, with March and April being some of the driest on record. While these kinds of variations can affect local water levels, levels measured at a Township monitoring point in April was only slightly lower than the past ten year average.

Similarly, with more residents home than usual these days, residential water use has increased. Even domestic water use such as cooking and washing can affect overall aquifer water levels.

A spring is a location where groundwater flows in an amount large enough to form a pool or stream-like flow. Springs emerge underground and can discharge fresh water onto the ground surface or directly into the beds of rivers or streams.

Earlier this year, a spring emerged on the slope of the Salmon River and resulted in slope failure on private property. The Township is working with the property owner to ensure a timely repair of the slope is completed, in accordance with Provincial and environmental requirements.

Typically, localized springs do not have a significant impact on water levels in an aquifer. Water levels in aquifers are most influenced by major inflows and outflows, including precipitation and water use. The Township has retained a third-party qualified professional to assess concerns regarding the spring’s impact on aquifer water levels.