MediaWiki - Recent changes [en]

Aberdeenshire

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:18:40 GMT

File:SamplingPts Aberdeenshire2010.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:11:40 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:SamplingPts Aberdeenshire2010.jpg

New page

== Licensing ==
__notoc__
{|class="wikitable" style="width:100% style="background:#f0f8ff; font-size:80%"
| Download of 1000 x 1000 pixel images is free for all non-commercial use - all we ask in return is for you to acknowledge BGS when using our images. Click our Terms and Conditions link below for information on acknowledgement text, and to find out about using our images commercially.

====Copyright====

The images featured on this site unless otherwise indicated are copyright material of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), of which the British Geological Survey is a component body. The British Geological Survey encourages the use of its material in promoting geological and environmental sciences.
The images may be reproduced free of charge for any non-commercial use in any format or medium provided they are reproduced accurately and not used in a misleading or derogatory context.
Where any images on this site are being republished or copied to others, the source of the material must be identified and the copyright status acknowledged.
The permission to reproduce UKRI protected material does not extend to any images on this site which are identified as being the copyright of a third party. Authorisation to reproduce such material must be obtained from the copyright holders concerned.

====Non-commercial Use====

Use of the images downloaded from this site and reproduced digitally or otherwise may only be used for non-commercial purposes, which are:-

* Private study or research for a non-commercial purpose
* Education – for teaching, preparation and examination purposes

When using the images please credit 'British Geological Survey' and include the catalogue reference ('P Number') of the item to allow others to access the original image or document.
Non-commercial users of the images from this site are restricted to downloading no more than 30 images, without seeking further permission from [mailto:enquiries@bgs.ac.uk enquiries@bgs.ac.uk]

====Commercial Use====

For commercial use of these images for which higher resolution images are available, individual permissions and/or licences arrangements should be agreed by contacting [mailto:enquiries@bgs.ac.uk enquiries@bgs.ac.uk]

Commercial use will include publications in books (including educational books), newspapers, journals, magazines, CDs and DVDs, etc, where a cover charge is applied; broadcasts on TV, film and theatre; and display in trade fairs, galleries, etc. If you are in doubt as to whether your intended use is commercial, please contact [mailto:enquiries@bgs.ac.uk enquiries@bgs.ac.uk]

====Warranty====
Use of the images downloaded from this site is at the users own risk. UKRI gives no warranty as to the quality of the images or the medium on which they are provided or their suitability for any use.

====Ordnance Survey topography====
Maps and diagrams in Earthwise use topography based on Ordnance Survey mapping. The National Grid and other Ordnance Survey data ©Crown Copyright and database rights 2015. Ordnance Survey Licence No. 100021290 EUL.
|}
[[Category:License tags]]

Aberdeenshire

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:11:20 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:11, 10 June 2026
(2 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 1:		Line 1:
	{{Underconstruction}}		{{Underconstruction}}
	===Aberdeenshire===		==Aberdeenshire==
	A total of 37 samples from Precambrian and igneous aquifers in Aberdeenshire are included in the Baseline dataset, collected between 2004 and 2006 (see map below). The sites for samples were chosen so that the Baseline data would be representative of groundwater across Aberdeenshire, within aeach of the studied aquifer types.		A total of 37 samples from Precambrian and igneous aquifers in Aberdeenshire are included in the Baseline dataset, collected between 2004 and 2006 (see map below). The sites for samples were chosen so that the Baseline data would be representative of groundwater across Aberdeenshire, within aeach of the studied aquifer types.

			[[Image:SamplingPts_Aberdeenshire2010.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]

			<center>'''Coverage of baseline sampling in Aberdeenshire against the 625K geology map of the region. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

	Four aquifer groups have been identified: three divisions of metamorphic aquifers of Dalradian age, the Appin, Argyll and Southern Highland Groups; and a single group incorporating all the intrusive rocks – largely granitic – across the region.		Four aquifer groups have been identified: three divisions of metamorphic aquifers of Dalradian age, the Appin, Argyll and Southern Highland Groups; and a single group incorporating all the intrusive rocks – largely granitic – across the region.

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:08:11 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:08, 10 June 2026
(4 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 25:		Line 25:
	[[Image:BoreholeAbstractions.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]		[[Image:BoreholeAbstractions.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

	<center>'''Sampling was done from private, public and industrial borehole abstractions in Scotland. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>'''Sampling was done from private, public and industrial<br>borehole abstractions in Scotland. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

	[[Image:AirFreeSamples.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]		[[Image:AirFreeSamples.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

	<center>'''Taking air-free samples in a bucket containing flowing groundwater to prevent atmospheric contamination ~~for~~ for CFC and SF<sub>6</sub> analysis. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>'''Taking air-free samples in a bucket containing flowing groundwater to<br>prevent atmospheric contamination for CFC and SF<sub>6</sub> analysis. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

	The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the demonstration of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.		The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the demonstration of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.

File:FilteringGroundwater.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:06:38 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:FilteringGroundwater.jpg

New page

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:06:24 GMT

Sample site selection

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:06, 10 June 2026
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 14:		Line 14:

	<center>'''Major and trace element sampling in central Scotland. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>'''Major and trace element sampling in central Scotland. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

			[[Image:FilteringGroundwater.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]

			<center>'''Filtering groundwater for major and trace element samples. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

	[[Image:MiningSites.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]		[[Image:MiningSites.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

File:AirFreeSamples.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:05:02 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:AirFreeSamples.jpg

New page

File:BoreholeAbstractions.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:04:47 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:BoreholeAbstractions.jpg

New page

File:MiningSites.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:04:27 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:MiningSites.jpg

New page

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:04:06 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:04, 10 June 2026
Line 13:		Line 13:
	[[Image:MajorTrace.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]		[[Image:MajorTrace.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]

			<center>'''Major and trace element sampling in central Scotland. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

			[[Image:MiningSites.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

			<center>'''Sampling was done in both rural and mining sites. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

	The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the ~~demonstation~~ of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.		[[Image:BoreholeAbstractions.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

			<center>'''Sampling was done from private, public and industrial borehole abstractions in Scotland. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

			[[Image:AirFreeSamples.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

			<center>'''Taking air-free samples in a bucket containing flowing groundwater to prevent atmospheric contamination for for CFC and SF<sub>6</sub> analysis. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

			The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the demonstration of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.

	The sites for all samples considered in the Baseline project are chosen to be representative of groundwater in the local area. Sources that are very poorly constructed — e.g. open and/or uncased boreholes in leaking chambers – and which are close to obvious and significant sources of contamination — e.g. unsecured slurry stores – are avoided.		The sites for all samples considered in the Baseline project are chosen to be representative of groundwater in the local area. Sources that are very poorly constructed — e.g. open and/or uncased boreholes in leaking chambers – and which are close to obvious and significant sources of contamination — e.g. unsecured slurry stores – are avoided.

File:MajorTrace.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:44:55 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:MajorTrace.jpg

New page

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:44:43 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:44, 10 June 2026
(5 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 10:		Line 10:

	<center>'''Distribution of Baseline samples collected to 2010. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>'''Distribution of Baseline samples collected to 2010. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

			[[Image:MajorTrace.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]

File:Figure-1-Baseline sites1.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:34:28 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:Figure-1-Baseline sites1.jpg

New page

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:34:12 GMT

Sample site selection

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:34, 10 June 2026
(2 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 7:		Line 7:
	* to collect samples that are as far as possible representative of groundwater in the studied aquifers.		* to collect samples that are as far as possible representative of groundwater in the studied aquifers.

	[[Image:Figure-1-~~Baseline_sites~~.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]		[[Image:Figure-1-Baseline_sites1.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

	<center>'''Distribution of Baseline samples collected to 2010. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>'''Distribution of Baseline samples collected to 2010. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

File:Figure-1-Baseline sites.jpg

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:33:12 GMT

Ajhil uploaded File:Figure-1-Baseline sites.jpg

New page

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:33:02 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:33, 10 June 2026
(4 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 1:		Line 1:
	{{Underconstruction}}		{{Underconstruction}}
	==~~Baseline sampling and analysis methodology~~==		===Sample site selection===
	Sample site selection
	The criteria for site selection during dedicated Baseline sampling surveys are:		The criteria for site selection during dedicated Baseline sampling surveys are:

Line 7:		Line 6:
	* to collect samples distributed as evenly as possible over each of the aquifer types studied; and		* to collect samples distributed as evenly as possible over each of the aquifer types studied; and
	* to collect samples that are as far as possible representative of groundwater in the studied aquifers.		* to collect samples that are as far as possible representative of groundwater in the studied aquifers.

			[[Image:Figure-1-Baseline_sites.jpg\|frameless\|center\|400px\|]]

			<center>'''Distribution of Baseline samples collected to 2010. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>


	The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the demonstation of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.		The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the demonstation of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.
Line 23:		Line 27:
	Sources that are very poorly constructed — e.g. open and/or uncased boreholes in leaking chambers – and which are close to obvious and significant sources of contamination — e.g. unsecured slurry stores – are avoided.		Sources that are very poorly constructed — e.g. open and/or uncased boreholes in leaking chambers – and which are close to obvious and significant sources of contamination — e.g. unsecured slurry stores – are avoided.

	Sampling and analysis procedure		===Sampling and analysis procedure===
	At each sample site, field measurements are made of:		At each sample site, field measurements are made of:

	pH		* pH
	dissolved oxygen (DO)		* dissolved oxygen (DO)
	redox potential (Eh)		* redox potential (Eh)
	water temperature		* water temperature
	specific electrical conductance (SEC)		* specific electrical conductance (SEC)
	alkalinity		* alkalinity

	Where possible, pH, DO and Eh are measured in an in-line flow cell (Figure 2) to minimise atmospheric contamination and parameters were monitored (typically for at least 10 to 15 minutes) until stable readings are obtained. Where not possible, measurements of water as close as possible to the pump outlet are made in a bucket within one to two minutes of abstraction.		Where possible, pH, DO and Eh are measured in an in-line flow cell (Figure 2) to minimise atmospheric contamination and parameters were monitored (typically for at least 10 to 15 minutes) until stable readings are obtained. Where not possible, measurements of water as close as possible to the pump outlet are made in a bucket within one to two minutes of abstraction.

	Water samples are collected for subsequent laboratory analysis.		Water samples are collected for subsequent laboratory analysis.

	Samples for major- and trace-element analysis are filtered through 0.45 um filters and collected in polyethylene bottles rinsed with sample water before collection. Four filtered aliquots are collected at each site: two are acidified to 1% v/v with Aristar ~~HNO3~~, one for analysis of major cations, total sulphur and Si by ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy), and the other for a large range of trace elements by ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry). A third aliquot is acidified to 1% v/v with Aristar HCl for analysis of As by AFS (atomic fluorescence spectrometry) with hydride generation, to be used if necessary as a check on ICP-MS As analyses. A fourth aliquot is left unacidified for analysis of anions by ion chromatography (Cl, NO3-N, Br, F) and automated colorimetry (NO2-N, NH4-N).		* ''Samples for major- and trace-element analysis'' are filtered through 0.45 um filters and collected in polyethylene bottles rinsed with sample water before collection. Four filtered aliquots are collected at each site: two are acidified to 1% v/v with Aristar HNO<sub>3</sub>, one for analysis of major cations, total sulphur and Si by ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy), and the other for a large range of trace elements by ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry). A third aliquot is acidified to 1% v/v with Aristar HCl for analysis of As by AFS (atomic fluorescence spectrometry) with hydride generation, to be used if necessary as a check on ICP-MS As analyses. A fourth aliquot is left unacidified for analysis of anions by ion chromatography (Cl, NO3-N, Br, F) and automated colorimetry (NO2-N, NH4-N).
	Samples for dissolved organic carbon (DOC) analysis are also collected in chromic-acid-washed glass bottles, after filtration using silver-impregnated 0.45 μm filters. DOC was measured by carbon analyser.		* ''Samples for dissolved organic carbon (DOC) analysis'' are also collected in chromic-acid-washed glass bottles, after filtration using silver-impregnated 0.45 μm filters. DOC was measured by carbon analyser.
	Stable-iostopic analysis - at most of the sample sites, additional water samples are collected in glass bottles for stable-isotopic analyses (~~δ2H~~, ~~δ18O~~ and ~~δ13C~~).		* ''Stable-iostopic analysis'' - at most of the sample sites, additional water samples are collected in glass bottles for stable-isotopic analyses (δ<sup>2</sup>H, δ<sup>18</sup>O and δ<sup>13</sup>C).
	CFC and ~~SF6~~ analysis – where it is possible to collect an air-free sample direct from the source, samples are also collected CFC and ~~SF6~~ analysis in glass bottles, submerged under flowing groundwater to prevent atmospheric contamination (Figure 3).		* ''CFC and SF<sub>6</sub> analysis'' – where it is possible to collect an air-free sample direct from the source, samples are also collected CFC and SF<sub>6</sub> analysis in glass bottles, submerged under flowing groundwater to prevent atmospheric contamination (Figure 3).

	Most analyses are carried out at the BGS laboratories, except for some ICP-MS analysis which were carried out by ACME laboratories, Vancouver, Canada. Charge imbalances are calculated for each sample and reported on, and are typically less than 3%, giving confidence that the analytical results for the major species of all samples are reliable. The BGS laboratories run a series of QA checks, including analysis of certified standards, to ensure that all analyses are within their prescribed limits.		Most analyses are carried out at the BGS laboratories, except for some ICP-MS analysis which were carried out by ACME laboratories, Vancouver, Canada. Charge imbalances are calculated for each sample and reported on, and are typically less than 3%, giving confidence that the analytical results for the major species of all samples are reliable. The BGS laboratories run a series of QA checks, including analysis of certified standards, to ensure that all analyses are within their prescribed limits.

	Analyses of total sulphur are expressed as ~~SO4~~ and alkalinity as ~~HCO3~~. Analyses of ~~δ2H~~, ~~δ18O~~ are expressed as per mil deviations relative to VSMOW (Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water) and ~~δ13C~~ relative to VPDB (Vienna Pee Dee Belemnite).		Analyses of total sulphur are expressed as SO<sub>4</sub> and alkalinity as HCO<sub>3</sub>. Analyses of δ<sup>2</sup>H, δ<sup>18</sup>O are expressed as per mil deviations relative to VSMOW (Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water) and δ<sup>13</sup>C relative to VPDB (Vienna Pee Dee Belemnite).

	~~===Contact===~~
	~~Please contact [https://www.bgs.ac.uk/about-bgs/contact-us/ BGS Enquiries] for more information.~~
	[[category:Groundwater and shale gas]]		[[category:Groundwater and shale gas]]

Baseline Scotland: groundwater chemistry data

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:23:26 GMT

About Baseline Scotland

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:23, 10 June 2026
Line 5:		Line 5:
	===About Baseline Scotland===		===About Baseline Scotland===
	[[Image:Sepa_logo1.jpg\|frameless\|right\|200px\|]]		[[Image:Sepa_logo1.jpg\|frameless\|right\|200px\|]]
	Baseline Scotland is a joint project between BGS and [https://www.sepa.org.uk/ SEPA ]which is providing new groundwater chemistry data for Scotland. This new data provides essential information to sustainably manage Scotland’s water environment, as required by Scottish, UK and European water legislation, (such as the Water Framework Directive). Before Baseline Scotland very little reliable groundwater chemistry data existed, particularly for trace elements.		Baseline Scotland is a joint project between BGS and [https://www.sepa.org.uk/ SEPA ]which is providing new groundwater chemistry data for Scotland. This new data provides essential information to sustainably manage Scotland’s water environment, as required by Scottish, UK and European water legislation, (such as the [[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#Water Framework Directive \| Water Framework Directive)]]. Before Baseline Scotland very little reliable groundwater chemistry data existed, particularly for trace elements.

	Systematic groundwater sampling surveys were carried out across all the major bedrock aquifers in Scotland between 2005 and 2011, as well as many superficial aquifers. Standardised sampling techniques were used to characterise the groundwater chemistry in detail and investigate how long since groundwater was recharged from rainfall; how groundwater has interacted with the aquifer rocks; and whether there is any groundwater pollution. The results from most parts of Scotland have already been reported in [[Baseline Scotland reports \| detailed reports]]. Summary results for each major aquifer group in Scotland are presented in [[Scotland's aquifers and groundwater bodies \| Scotland’s Aquifers and Groundwater Bodies]] (2015). Detailed results for the final areas, and a detailed overview of the baseline groundwater chemistry of Scotland, will be reported soon.		Systematic groundwater sampling surveys were carried out across all the major bedrock aquifers in Scotland between 2005 and 2011, as well as many superficial aquifers. Standardised sampling techniques were used to characterise the groundwater chemistry in detail and investigate how long since groundwater was recharged from rainfall; how groundwater has interacted with the aquifer rocks; and whether there is any groundwater pollution. The results from most parts of Scotland have already been reported in [[Baseline Scotland reports \| detailed reports]]. Summary results for each major aquifer group in Scotland are presented in [[Scotland's aquifers and groundwater bodies \| Scotland’s Aquifers and Groundwater Bodies]] (2015). Detailed results for the final areas, and a detailed overview of the baseline groundwater chemistry of Scotland, will be reported soon.

Baseline sampling and analysis methodology

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:20:33 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:20, 10 June 2026
Line 4:		Line 4:
	The criteria for site selection during dedicated Baseline sampling surveys are:		The criteria for site selection during dedicated Baseline sampling surveys are:

	to collect a suitable number of samples from each of the studied aquifer types, according to the distribution and areal extent of the aquifers;		* to collect a suitable number of samples from each of the studied aquifer types, according to the distribution and areal extent of the aquifers;
	to collect samples distributed as evenly as possible over each of the aquifer types studied; and		* to collect samples distributed as evenly as possible over each of the aquifer types studied; and
	to collect samples that are as far as possible representative of groundwater in the studied aquifers.		* to collect samples that are as far as possible representative of groundwater in the studied aquifers.
	The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the ~~demonstationdemonstration~~ of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.
			The primary criteria for including additional data from earlier studies was the demonstation of suitable robust sampling and analysis procedure. The distribution of baseline samples collated to 2010 is shown in Figure 1.

	The sites for all samples considered in the Baseline project are chosen to be representative of groundwater in the local area. Sources that are very poorly constructed — e.g. open and/or uncased boreholes in leaking chambers – and which are close to obvious and significant sources of contamination — e.g. unsecured slurry stores – are avoided.		The sites for all samples considered in the Baseline project are chosen to be representative of groundwater in the local area. Sources that are very poorly constructed — e.g. open and/or uncased boreholes in leaking chambers – and which are close to obvious and significant sources of contamination — e.g. unsecured slurry stores – are avoided.
Line 13:		Line 14:
	Each of the sample sites is assessed at the time of sampling, in particular the source construction and the surrounding land use, to identify any potential sources of contamination that could affect the chemistry of sampled groundwater and the risk of contamination.		Each of the sample sites is assessed at the time of sampling, in particular the source construction and the surrounding land use, to identify any potential sources of contamination that could affect the chemistry of sampled groundwater and the risk of contamination.

	Sample sources		===Sample sources===
	Across Scotland as a whole, most of the Baseline groundwater samples are collected from boreholes. However, in some regions, particularly in upland areas, springs form a significant proportion of the sources sampled. In all areas, shallow, large diameter wells are typically the least common source type. In the Midland Valley, a small proportion of samples were collected from mine adits, mine shafts, or boreholes intercepting mine workings.		Across Scotland as a whole, most of the Baseline groundwater samples are collected from boreholes. However, in some regions, particularly in upland areas, springs form a significant proportion of the sources sampled. In all areas, shallow, large diameter wells are typically the least common source type. In the Midland Valley, a small proportion of samples were collected from mine adits, mine shafts, or boreholes intercepting mine workings.

Baseline Scotland: groundwater chemistry data

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:19:26 GMT

Baseline sampling

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:19, 10 June 2026
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 30:		Line 30:
	<center>		<center>
	<div><ul>		<div><ul>
	<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Baseline_photo3.jpg\|frameless\|left\|~~350px~~]]</li>		<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Baseline_photo3.jpg\|frameless\|left\|285px]]</li>
	<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Baseline_photo2.jpg\|frameless\|right\|350px]]</li>		<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Baseline_photo2.jpg\|frameless\|right\|350px]]</li>
	<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Baseline_photo1.jpg\|frameless\|right\|350px]]</li>		<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Baseline_photo1.jpg\|frameless\|right\|350px]]</li>
Line 37:		Line 37:

	<center>''(top left)'' '''Measuring wellhead chemistry. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>''(top left)'' '''Measuring wellhead chemistry. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>
	<center>''(~~top right~~)'' '''Sampling groundwater. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>''(centre)'' '''Sampling groundwater. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>
	<center>''(bottom)'' '''Sampling groundwater. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>''(bottom)'' '''Sampling groundwater. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:14:40 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:14, 10 June 2026
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 440:		Line 440:
	[[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms \|''back to top'']]		[[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms \|''back to top'']]

			<span id="'''Water Framework Directive'''"></span>
	'''Water Framework Directive'''		'''Water Framework Directive'''

Line 449:		Line 450:

	<span id="'''Y'''"></span>		<span id="'''Y'''"></span>

	=='''Y'''==		=='''Y'''==
	[[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms \|''back to top'']]		[[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms \|''back to top'']]

Scotland's aquifers and groundwater bodies

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:14:10 GMT

A comprehensive synthesis

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:14, 10 June 2026
Line 8:		Line 8:

	===A comprehensive synthesis===		===A comprehensive synthesis===
	[https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/511413/ Scotland's aquifers and groundwater bodies] provides an up to date overview of Scotland's aquifers, their hydrogeology and their baseline groundwater chemistry. It also gives an introduction to groundwater and groundwater management in Scotland, and describes the process of delineating groundwater bodies, which are the basis of groundwater management in Scotland under the [[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms \| Water Framework Directive]].		[https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/511413/ Scotland's aquifers and groundwater bodies] provides an up to date overview of Scotland's aquifers, their hydrogeology and their baseline groundwater chemistry. It also gives an introduction to groundwater and groundwater management in Scotland, and describes the process of delineating groundwater bodies, which are the basis of groundwater management in Scotland under the [[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#Water Framework Directive \| Water Framework Directive]].

	===Scotland's vital groundwater===		===Scotland's vital groundwater===

Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms

Ajhil — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:08:06 GMT

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:08, 10 June 2026
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 301:		Line 301:
	'''Non-aquifer'''		'''Non-aquifer'''

	A rock formation that does not form an aquifer: ~~see~~ [[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#'''Aquiclude'''\|(see aquiclude)]].		A rock formation that does not form an aquifer: [[Glossary of groundwater and groundwater-related terms#'''Aquiclude'''\| see aquiclude]].

	<span id="'''P'''"></span>		<span id="'''P'''"></span>

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:18, 10 June 2026
(7 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown)
Line 5:		Line 5:
	[[Image:SamplingPts_Aberdeenshire2010.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]		[[Image:SamplingPts_Aberdeenshire2010.jpg\|frameless\|center\|500px\|]]

	<center>'''Coverage of baseline sampling in Aberdeenshire against the 625K geology map of the region. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>		<center>'''Coverage of baseline sampling in Aberdeenshire against<br>the 625K geology map of the region. BGS © UKRI.'''</center>

	Four aquifer groups have been identified: three divisions of metamorphic aquifers of Dalradian age, the Appin, Argyll and Southern Highland Groups; and a single group incorporating all the intrusive rocks – largely granitic – across the region.		Four aquifer groups have been identified: three divisions of metamorphic aquifers of Dalradian age, the Appin, Argyll and Southern Highland Groups; and a single group incorporating all the intrusive rocks – largely granitic – across the region.
Line 11:		Line 11:
	Download the Baseline Scotland: groundwater chemistry of Aberdeenshire report.		Download the Baseline Scotland: groundwater chemistry of Aberdeenshire report.

	Main findings		===Main findings===
	The collection and interpretation of new groundwater chemistry data for southern Scotland has led to the following conclusions:		The collection and interpretation of new groundwater chemistry data for southern Scotland has led to the following conclusions:

	Most of the groundwater pH values in the region are slightly acidic (5.5–7.2). Groundwaters from the Appin Group tend to have slightly higher pH (median pH 6.7) than those from the other aquifer groups (median pH values 6.2–6.3).		* Most of the groundwater pH values in the region are slightly acidic (5.5–7.2). Groundwaters from the Appin Group tend to have slightly higher pH (median pH 6.7) than those from the other aquifer groups (median pH values 6.2–6.3).
	Bicarbonate alkalinity: most groundwaters have relatively low bicarbonate concentrations, with a range from 11 to 127 mg/L (10th to 90th percentiles), and a median of 34 mg/L. Similar patterns to pH are observed between the aquifer groups, with HCO3 generally higher (median 80 mg/L) in Appin Group groundwaters, than in the others (medians 19 to 34 mg/L).		* Bicarbonate alkalinity: most groundwaters have relatively low bicarbonate concentrations, with a range from 11 to 127 mg/L (10th to 90th percentiles), and a median of 34 mg/L. Similar patterns to pH are observed between the aquifer groups, with HCO3 generally higher (median 80 mg/L) in Appin Group groundwaters, than in the others (medians 19 to 34 mg/L).
	Cl and SO4 concentrations are generally low, but because of the relatively low mineralisation of the Aberdeenshire groundwaters, Cl can constitute a relatively large proportion of the total dissolved anions, particularly in the Argyll and Southern Highland groups and in the igneous aquifers. The most significant source of Cl is likely to be maritime rainfall.		* Cl and SO4 concentrations are generally low, but because of the relatively low mineralisation of the Aberdeenshire groundwaters, Cl can constitute a relatively large proportion of the total dissolved anions, particularly in the Argyll and Southern Highland groups and in the igneous aquifers. The most significant source of Cl is likely to be maritime rainfall.
	Concentrations of the major cations reflect a combination of rainfall input, mineral weathering, and anthropogenic inputs derived from the use of fertilisers and liming, or from other sources of pollution. Most notable is a relative enrichment in bicarbonate and calcium, and more generally alkaline conditions, in groundwaters from the Appin Group compared to the other aquifer groups. All the groundwaters are undersaturated with respect to calcite, reflecting the general lack of carbonate minerals in the bedrock. The few samples close to saturation were derived from the Appin and Argyll Groups, which both contain calcareous rock bands.		* Concentrations of the major cations reflect a combination of rainfall input, mineral weathering, and anthropogenic inputs derived from the use of fertilisers and liming, or from other sources of pollution. Most notable is a relative enrichment in bicarbonate and calcium, and more generally alkaline conditions, in groundwaters from the Appin Group compared to the other aquifer groups. All the groundwaters are undersaturated with respect to calcite, reflecting the general lack of carbonate minerals in the bedrock. The few samples close to saturation were derived from the Appin and Argyll Groups, which both contain calcareous rock bands.
	All of the groundwaters in the study area are oxidising, with dissolved oxygen concentrations generally in the range 3.9–9.6 mg/l and a redox potential (Eh) greater than 300 mV. This reflects the unconfined nature of the aquifers and the generally rapid groundwater flow.		* All of the groundwaters in the study area are oxidising, with dissolved oxygen concentrations generally in the range 3.9–9.6 mg/l and a redox potential (Eh) greater than 300 mV. This reflects the unconfined nature of the aquifers and the generally rapid groundwater flow.
	Nitrate concentrations are highly variable: the median concentration of nitrate in groundwater is 7.15 mg/l NO3-N across the aquifers. Concentrations are related to land use, with groundwaters beneath agricultural land showing higher concentrations than those beneath non-agricultural land. The land use class showing the highest median NO3 concentration (13.6 mg/L NO3-N, compared to less than 7.6 mg/L NO3-N for other land use classes) was land used for rearing dairy, pigs and/or poultry.		* Nitrate concentrations are highly variable: the median concentration of nitrate in groundwater is 7.15 mg/l NO3-N across the aquifers. Concentrations are related to land use, with groundwaters beneath agricultural land showing higher concentrations than those beneath non-agricultural land. The land use class showing the highest median NO3 concentration (13.6 mg/L NO3-N, compared to less than 7.6 mg/L NO3-N for other land use classes) was land used for rearing dairy, pigs and/or poultry.
	Concentrations of phosphorous in groundwater can be an important influence on surface water eutrophication if present in baseflow to streams and rivers. Concentrations in Aberdeenshire generally range from 20 to 80 mg/L-P. Although a slightly higher proportion of relatively low P concentrations occur in samples from areas of woodland and natural land use than from agricultural land, there isn't a strong relationship between P and land use, illustrating the complexity of P geochemistry, and the important role that soil geochemistry plays in the mobilisation of P into groundwater.		* Concentrations of phosphorous in groundwater can be an important influence on surface water eutrophication if present in baseflow to streams and rivers. Concentrations in Aberdeenshire generally range from 20 to 80 mg/L-P. Although a slightly higher proportion of relatively low P concentrations occur in samples from areas of woodland and natural land use than from agricultural land, there isn't a strong relationship between P and land use, illustrating the complexity of P geochemistry, and the important role that soil geochemistry plays in the mobilisation of P into groundwater.
	Interpretations in terms of groundwater flow in southern Scotland
			===Interpretations in terms of groundwater flow in southern Scotland===
	The hydrochemical data and information on groundwater residence times can help give an insight into groundwater flow in aquifers across Aberdeenshire. The best interpretation of the groundwater flow system within all of the aquifers is that it is largely through fractures, except in areas of enhanced, deep weathering, where intergranular permeability is likely to have been enhanced and intergranular groundwater flow may dominate.		The hydrochemical data and information on groundwater residence times can help give an insight into groundwater flow in aquifers across Aberdeenshire. The best interpretation of the groundwater flow system within all of the aquifers is that it is largely through fractures, except in areas of enhanced, deep weathering, where intergranular permeability is likely to have been enhanced and intergranular groundwater flow may dominate.

	Groundwater is well mixed in the top 50 metres or so. There is no evidence of palaeowater in the area, and all samples (where CFC and SF6 have been measured) recorded some proportion of water less than 50 years old. However, groundwater can be resident for several decades, even in the fractured, low permeability aquifers.		Groundwater is well mixed in the top 50 metres or so. There is no evidence of palaeowater in the area, and all samples (where CFC and SF6 have been measured) recorded some proportion of water less than 50 years old. However, groundwater can be resident for several decades, even in the fractured, low permeability aquifers.

	Data		===Data===
	Summary statistics		'''Summary statistics'''<br>
	The tables below provide a statistical summary of the natural variation in groundwater chemistry in all aquifers across Aberdeenshire: the Dalradian metamorphic aquifers (the Appin, Argyll and Southern Highland groups) and the igneous (mainly granitic) aquifers. Data between the 10th and 90th percentiles for each element or ion are presented, which allows the influence of outliers to be minimised. We would expect new data to plot within this range 80% of the time.		The tables below provide a statistical summary of the natural variation in groundwater chemistry in all aquifers across Aberdeenshire: the Dalradian metamorphic aquifers (the Appin, Argyll and Southern Highland groups) and the igneous (mainly granitic) aquifers. Data between the 10th and 90th percentiles for each element or ion are presented, which allows the influence of outliers to be minimised. We would expect new data to plot within this range 80% of the time.

	Appin Group aquifer – Summary statistics of groundwater chemistry		* Appin Group aquifer – Summary statistics of groundwater chemistry
	Argyll Group aquifer – Summary statistics of groundwater chemistry		* Argyll Group aquifer – Summary statistics of groundwater chemistry
	Southern Highland Group aquifer – Summary statistics of groundwater		* Southern Highland Group aquifer – Summary statistics of groundwater
	Intrusive aquifers – Summary statistics of groundwater		* Intrusive aquifers – Summary statistics of groundwater
	Piper diagrams illustrate the distribution of groundwater chemistry data for the four main aquifers, and indicate outliers.		* Piper diagrams illustrate the distribution of groundwater chemistry data for the four main aquifers, and indicate outliers.
	Maps of regional variation in selected ion concentrations
	pH and HCO3 — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration		===Maps of regional variation in selected ion concentrations===
	Na and K — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration		* pH and HCO3 — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration
	Ca and Mg — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration		* Na and K — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration
	NO3-N and Fe — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration		* Ca and Mg — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration
	Mn and F — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration		* NO3-N and Fe — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration
	Baseline Report		* Mn and F — Maps illustrating spatial variation in the concentration

			===Baseline Report===
	Smedley, P L, Ó Dochartaigh, B É, MacDonald, A M, and Darling, W G. 2009. Baseline Scotland: groundwater chemistry of Aberdeenshire. British Geological Survey Open Report, OR/09/065.		Smedley, P L, Ó Dochartaigh, B É, MacDonald, A M, and Darling, W G. 2009. Baseline Scotland: groundwater chemistry of Aberdeenshire. British Geological Survey Open Report, OR/09/065.