Training Workshop and Installation Groundwater Monitoring Sensors at Echague, Isabela.
On January 8, 2024, a training workshop on the installation of groundwater sensors was held at the Water Research and Development Center. The training was conducted by Mr. Allan Allares of Phil Instrument, Inc and was attended by the SWIM Project Staff (Organic ISU Staff) and Technical Staff- Engr. Glen Batoon, Dr. Joe Lagarteja, Dr. Lanie A. Alejo, Engr. Minandro Alejo, Engr. Jeremy Balderama, Engr. Englebert Manmano, Engr. Czarimah Singson, Engr. Christine Gay Liberato, Ms. Aprilyn Alejandro, and Engr. Jayzelle Ventura. The workshop aimed to provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge on installing and maintaining groundwater sensors. The event covered various aspects, including an introduction to groundwater sensors, installation techniques, live demonstrations on one of the wells of the project located at ISU, and open discussions. The workshop also facilitated networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among the participants. Overall, the event was a success, equipping the attendees with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively monitor and manage groundwater resources.
The groundwater monitoring system is equipped with three sensors. The first is a level transducer, a pressure-based device that measures the liquid level and provides water level readings. The second is a digital conductivity sensor, which records three parameters: conductivity, salinity, and total dissolved solids. Finally, a pH sensor measures the acidity or alkalinity of the water on a scale of 0 to 14.
The groundwater monitoring system aims to collect data on groundwater quantity and quality. These data will be used as an input for analytical modeling tools Water Evaluation And Planning (WEAP), MODFLOW, VIC, and Aquimod to evaluate water supply and demand, assess contamination risk, examine resource sustainability and to simulate the condition of the groundwater in response to climate change. Generally, it aims to provide a science-based comprehensive water resources assessment framework for design of projects, intervention strategies, planning and policy/decision making.