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Contrary to theoretical models and after-the-fact contamination data from chemical analysis, natural level radiocarbon analysis offers empirical data which managers can use to make decisions on the future of their districts, before damage is done. This can be done by collecting 1 liter of water from each well head, sending it to us for analysis, and receiving information which is readily understood by commissioners and regulators.
Radiocarbon age dating is best known for its applications in archaeology and quaternary geology. Its popular use results from it being the best known isotopic chronometer. Whereas other dating methods involve assumptions based on indeterminate factors, radiocarbon dating only requires the direct measurement of the natural radiocarbon content of the sample and that of an associated reference standard; both of which are quantifiable.
Predict Exploitation Limits
As population density increases, demands on the aquifer will increase exponentially. Over-development can eventually lead to limited supply, with the greatest effects being to those districts farthest from the aquifers recharge zone. Since under-utilized lands generally surround populated areas, housing and industrial development extends in directions reflecting the highest commercial yield. However, if the developing areas encroach in to the recharge zone, new wells drilled to satisfy the eminent demand could create shortages if pumping exceeds recharge. By regularly monitoring the radiocarbon age of the water within a district's well system, empirical evidence is available to realize over-exploitation before it is out of control. Once residences or industries are established, it is very difficult to limit their water supply. Radiocarbon dating of the water provides a mechanism to monitor, understand and control exploitation of the aquifer.1
Predict Contamination
Time based monitoring of the radiocarbon content of a well can reveal both the stability of, and the changes in the source waters at the pump head. The younger ages of the water each year indicate younger waters are being drawn down from above. This could be caused, for example, by over pumping of the well or by expanded well drillings in other areas. In either case, it indicates that eventually contaminated surface waters could enter the drinking supply. Since radiocarbon occurs naturally in the ground water, this determination is made without any additions to the aquifer. Also, the determination is made before contamination enters the supply. This has strong economic and environmental implications for water resource management within and between districts.
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Radiocarbon Dating is Easily Understood and Conveyed
Chemical analyses deliver results and insight which are clearly understandable by hydrological engineers and researchers. However, the results are not always understood by commissioners, regulators and the general public. Since radiocarbon dates are easily understood, communication between the hydrologist and the layman is greatly enhanced. A non-scientist can understand and visualize that younger ages each year mean water is being drawn down from above. When told that the drinking water supply will eventually be contaminated when surface waters are reached, a clear concept is delivered. This has strong implications with regards to procuring research funds and contract awards from federal and local regulators and planners.
How to Collect and Send Water Samples
Samples should be collected at the well head and placed into a clean, single use 1 liter wide-mouth Nalgene (or equivalent) bottle. The bottle should be cleaned simply by allowing the well water to flush out the inside thoroughly and then dumping the contents out prior to filling. It is recommend that the water be allowed to flow out of the source for a period of several minutes prior to filling the bottle. The bottle should be filled to the base of the neck and a small amount of NaOH added prior to tightening the cap securely (we can provide the NaOH). Place a tape seal around the cap/bottle joint to help insure the lack of exchange or loss of CO2 from the water. The bottle should then be labeled with the appropriate sample identification number in indelible ink or on a non-removable tamper proof label.
Samples should be shipped in a sturdy cardboard box, with sufficient packing to insure that the bottles are not damaged in shipment. We recommend that samples be sent by commercial courier or first-class mail. Radiocarbon Sample Data Sheets (click the DATASHEETS button) should be included for each sample along with any required chain of custody or tracking documents that need to be returned.
Upon receipt at the laboratory we will contact you by e-mail or fax to inform you of the samples safe arrival. We will also quote you a delivery date for the reporting of the results (within 6-30 business days of receipt depending on the services requested).
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