Direct Push Methods for Groundwater Sampling & Monitoring

Direct Push (DP) methods have become widely used in the geo-environmental industry over the last 25-30 years as standard methods for sampling and investigation of soils and unconsolidated formations. While DP soil sampling techniques are widely used in the industry the groundwater sampling and monitoring capabilities have been under-utilized. This is often due to a lack of understanding of the advantages and capabilities of these methods. Also important is understanding the limitations of these methods and when and where they can be effectively applied. Before a groundwater investigation is conducted the project manager should use soil coring and/or DP logging methods like HPT-EC, MIP or OIP to clearly define the subsurface geology and help identify contaminated zones of concern. The soil boring data or DP logs then can be used to define zones that are sufficiently permeable to obtain groundwater samples. Silty clays just don’t yield much water for sampling. Brief examples for application of the coring and logging tools will be used during the workshop to discuss some of these basic principles.

This workshop will also provide an introduction to several of the DP groundwater sampling tools and monitoring methods available to help the project manager obtain valid and useful site characterization data while also saving time and funds.