Hydrogeology Section

The ISGS Hydrogeology Section conducts research related to groundwater, a resource used by one-third of all Illinois households, farms, businesses, and industries. Nearly 1,200 regulated community water utilities and another 4,300 regulated water supplies depend on groundwater in Illinois; roughly 400,000 rural households rely on private wells. Most users meet their groundwater needs by tapping into groundwater aquifers, especially the water-yielding sand and gravel materials of glacial origin. About 45 percent of all Illinois water wells tap aquifers in glacial materials, some of which have little protection from contamination.

Mission

To investigate and report on the hydrogeology of Illinois and to provide the people and institutions of Illinois with a scientific basis for the protection and beneficial use of its groundwater resources.

Research Activities

• Effects of agriculture on groundwater quality
• Mapping of groundwater resources
• Geochemistry of the Mahomet aquifer
• Site-based evaluations of groundwater flow and quality

Service Activities

• Geophysical Exploration
• Educational Outreach