27 April 2018

Lecture 1: Surface and Groundwater Sources

Author/Compiled by
Petter D. Jenssen

This lecture gives a brief overview of surface and groundwater sources for drinking water supply. Surface water can be of very varying quality depending on the source. The lecture suggests methods that may be applied for treatment of the different raw water qualities in order to reduce environmental and health impacts (see also water quality testing and pathogens and contaminants). In doing so, it is important to take into account the whole water cycle.

Further Readings

Protecting Water Resources: Pollution Prevention

This thematic background paper for the International Conference on Freshwater in Bonn in December 2001 is a collection and analysis of relevant information on pressures, state and responses of both groundwater and surface water pollution with special emphasis given to regional conditions, frames and problems. To point out success stories and lessons learnt, case studies have been selected.

KRAEMER, A. CHOUDHURY, K. KAMPA, E. (2001): Protecting Water Resources: Pollution Prevention. (= Thematic Background Paper ). International Conference on Freshwater in Bonn URL [Accessed: 21.04.2012]

Interaction of Ground Water and Surface Water in Different Landscapes

The interaction of ground water with surface water depends on the physiographic and climatic setting of the landscape. The five general types of terrain discussed are mountainous, riverine, coastal, glacial and dune, and karst.

USGS (2001): Interaction of Ground Water and Surface Water in Different Landscapes. Washington D.C.: U.S. Geological Survey; U.S. Department of the Interior URL [Accessed: 09.10.2012]
Case Studies

Alternative Versions to