Table of Contents
Introduction—How to Use This Workbook............................................................................i
Contents. ...................................................................................................................................i
Other Features of the Workbook............................................................................................iii
Module 1—Understanding Groundwater..............................................................................1
What is Groundwater?............................................................................................................. 1
Aquifers and Aquicludes................................................................................................... 2
Confined and Unconfined Aquifers................................................................................... 2
Types of Aquifers in Alberta.................................................................................................... 3
Groundwater Movement.......................................................................................................... 4
Groundwater Recharge............................................................................................................ 4
Factors Affecting Groundwater Quality ................................................................................ 5
Depth from Ground Surface.............................................................................................. 5
Permeability of Sediments................................................................................................ 6
Chemical Makeup of Sediments....................................................................................... 6
Climatic Variations........................................................................................................... 6
Geology and Groundwater Supplies in Alberta...................................................................... 7
Module 2—Planning Your Water System .............................................................................9
Why Plan?................................................................................................................................. 9
Steps to Planning Your Water System................................................................................. 10
Determine Water Requirements..................................................................................... 10
Complete an Inventory of Water Sources. ..................................................................... 10
Water Source Options............................................................................................................ 11
Wells................................................................................................................................. 11
Dugouts............................................................................................................................ 11