Hydrogeology Field Course Modules

GEOS 5250 – Surface Geophysics

This course provides an introduction to the theory and field applications of surface geophysical methods for groundwater investigation. Methods covered may include:

• Electromagnetic methods
• Ground-penetrating radar (GPR)
• Magnetic methods
• Surface resistivity methods
• Shallow seismic methods

GEOS 5230 – Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER)

This course provides certified HAZWOPER training required for working safely on hazardous sites. Training includes:

• Safe handling of hazardous materials encountered during drilling, soil sampling, or water sampling.
• Review of state and federal regulations and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Fulfillment of OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training requirements.
• Emergency spill response procedures.
• Fieldwork health and safety, including worksite evaluation.

Note: OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification is required for all HFC modules. Applicants who already hold current certification must submit a copy (and the most recent update, if applicable) by email or mail when registering.

Refresher Course: An 8-hour refresher is usually offered for $85 on Tuesday and Wednesday for participants wishing to maintain their 40-hour certification.

GEOS 5270 – Principles and Practices of Well Drilling and Installation

This course introduces a range of drilling methods used in environmental and production well applications. Topics may include:

• Hollow-stem auger drilling and well installation
• Rotary drilling with mud, air, or foam
• Cable tool drilling
• Direct push and sonic drilling technologies
• Sediment sampling and description
• Borehole geophysics
• Design, installation, completion, and development of monitoring and production wells

Field Component: This module typically includes an overnight camping trip near Wilmington, Illinois, providing hands-on experience at a professional drilling training facility.

GEOS 5280 – Principles and Practices of Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring

This course introduces modern techniques for sampling, monitoring, and evaluating groundwater systems and surface water interactions. Topics include:

• Field hydrogeochemical equipment and procedures
• Monitoring of free-phase liquids (NAPL, DNAPL)
• Low-flow groundwater sampling and bailing techniques
• Field surveying methods
• Groundwater sampling equipment and standard procedures
• Quality control and assurance practices
• Water quality assessment and analysis
• Vadose zone sampling (water and soil gas)

GEOS 5260 – Principles and Practices of Aquifer Testing

This course introduces aquifer testing and characterization methods, with an emphasis on:

• Step draw-down pumping tests
• 24–48 hour aquifer pumping tests followed by recovery tests
• Physical and pneumatic slug tests

The course also covers the use of computer software for data processing and groundwater system evaluation. Field equipment may include water-level recorders, data loggers, and measuring devices.

Overnight Field Work: All participants will complete one overnight shift monitoring the aquifer pumping and recovery test at the Asylum Lake Preserve well field. Groups of 3–4 will work either 5 PM–1 AM or 1 AM–8 AM. Safety measures, including notification of WMU police, are in place to ensure participant safety.

GEOS 5240 – Remediation Design and Implementation

This course introduces principles and techniques for assessing sites, designing remediation strategies, and conducting long-term monitoring of contaminated groundwater and soils. Topics include a variety of environmental remediation technologies and evaluation methods, such as:

• Bioremediation
• Pump-and-treat systems
• Soil vapor extraction
• Monitored natural attenuation
• Air sparging
• Chemical oxidation and reduction
• Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
• Remedial investigations and feasibility studies, including selecting appropriate remediation methods based on site conditions and cost considerations