Ground Water

Observation Well Network

The observation well network was initially established in 1964 by the Saskatchewan Research Council. The majority of the observation wells were constructed between 1964 and 1970. The objective of the network was to measure natural fluctuations in groundwater levels in areas that are remote from influences of groundwater production and artificial recharge.

In 1988, the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority began to monitor wells located in areas affected by pumping. The network provides long-term information on the impacts of withdrawals from aquifers located throughout Saskatchewan.

Currently, there are 72 active observation wells located throughout Saskatchewan. Of the 72 wells, 54 are monitored by the Saskatchewan Research Council and 18 by the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority. The wells are equipped with automatic water level recorders or dataloggers to monitor the groundwater levels continuously. Information on the observation well network and groundwater levels are available to the public and can be assessed by linking to the individual wells. A brief description and hydrographs of the wells are provided.