Virtual Seminar: New Vadose Zone Monitoring Technology
Join us on July 27th at 8:00 AM (PST) for a virtual seminar titled: Vadose Zone Monitoring Technology 
Minimization of subsurface pollution and optimization of remediation efficiency depend on reliable and effective subsurface-monitoring tools that provide real-time information on the chemical and hydrological state of the percolating water. Unfortunately, today, most monitoring programs are based on information obtained from observation wells penetrating groundwater. As such, identification of pollution in well water is clear evidence that the groundwater has already been contaminated, and only little can be done to fully remediate the contaminated aquifers. Accordingly, effective monitoring program that aims at protecting groundwater from potential pollution must include vadose-zone monitoring technology that provides real-time information on the hydrological and chemical properties of the percolating water, long before contaminants reach the water table. Hence, monitoring and analyzing the vadose-zone provides "early warning" for potential contamination that may risk groundwater.
Dr. Dahan will be speaking on the Vadose Zone Monitoring System, better known as VMS, a novel vadose zone monitoring technology that is designed to provide in-situ, real time information on hydrological and chemical conditions of the percolating water in deep sections of the vadose zone. The data collected by the monitoring system provides early detection of subsurface pollution and allows optimization of remediation conditions. Currently the system has been successfully implemented in several research projects on water flow and contaminant transport in various hydrological and geological setups, including: (a) floodwater infiltration from stream channels and reservoirs, (b) land use impact on groundwater quality, (c) influence of intensive agriculture on groundwater quality, and (d) controlled remediation conditions of a contaminated vadose zone.