The vadose zone is a complex subsurface zone that links and buffers processes between land surface-atmosphere and groundwater. It thus affects the groundwater environment in many ways. For example, as the water table approaches ground surface (i.e., soil profile becomes thin), vadose zone processes will affect near-surface water balance and geochemical conditions that can significantly influence the fate and transport of dissolved compounds and colloids. Presentations are invited on a broad range of topics that highlight the impacts of the vadose zone on groundwater hydrology. Field, laboratory and modeling investigations are all welcome. Topics discussed include: • Multiphase flow and transport processes in capillary fringes • Impacts of evapotranspiration on groundwater fluctuations • Modeling techniques that link the vadose and saturated zones • Combined monitoring programs for groundwater and vadose zone systems.