Site Assessment (Preliminary Evaluation)
At the beginning of a groundwater development project, a structured site assessment is carried out. The purpose of this step is to evaluate basic environmental, technical, and legal conditions before detailed hydrogeological investigations or construction activities begin. This ensures that the selected site is suitable for long-term and sustainable drinking water abstraction.
1. Hydrogeological and technical background
☐ Hydrogeological data available and reviewed
☐ Basic subsurface conditions assessed (if existing information is available)
A first understanding of the geological and hydrogeological setting is essential to evaluate whether groundwater resources are likely to be present and accessible. Existing data such as borehole logs, geological maps, or nearby well information provide an important foundation for further planning.
2. Water demand and system requirements
☐ Water demand defined (current and projected)
A clear definition of water demand is required to determine the required abstraction capacity. This includes current consumption patterns as well as expected future growth. Without this step, system design may lead to either undercapacity or unnecessary oversizing.
3. Accessibility and site conditions
☐ Site is accessible for drilling and construction equipment
☐ Terrain and logistical conditions evaluated
Physical access to the site must be ensured for drilling rigs, construction machinery, and future maintenance operations. Difficult terrain, limited road access, or seasonal restrictions can significantly affect project feasibility and cost.
4. Contamination risk assessment
☐ No significant contamination sources identified nearby
Potential contamination risks such as agriculture, industrial activities, waste disposal sites, or sewage systems must be evaluated early. Even if groundwater is available, poor water quality conditions can make a site unsuitable for drinking water supply.
5. Future development potential
☐ Possibility for system expansion assessed
The long-term viability of the site should be considered, including potential increases in water demand or system expansion. A site that only meets short-term needs may become insufficient within a few years.
6. Energy and infrastructure availability
☐ Energy supply available or technically feasible (grid or alternative systems)
Reliable energy supply is essential for pumping systems. The availability of grid electricity or alternative energy sources (e.g. solar) must be evaluated to ensure continuous operation.
7. Legal and ownership conditions
☐ Land ownership clarified
☐ Legal permissions and constraints reviewed
Clear land ownership and legal certainty are fundamental requirements before any technical investment. Unresolved ownership or regulatory restrictions can delay or prevent project implementation.
8. Overall feasibility assessment
☐ Long-term technical and operational feasibility confirmed
All collected information is consolidated into an overall feasibility assessment. This step ensures that the site is not only technically suitable but also economically, legally, and operationally viable for long-term