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Science and Technology

The Mid-County Groundwater Agency is working with cutting edge science and technology to efficiently advance our goal of restoring the Mid-County Groundwater Basin. Below are four technologies that are helping us gather important information that will lead to informed decisions, all while saving money and improving data. By clicking the headings you will be directed to a page with more information about each of them

Groundwater Model

The MGA has been working with Hydrometrics Water Resources Inc. to develop a groundwater model for the Mid-County Basin, and use it to run various simulations.

SkyTEM Helicopter Surveys

In partnership with SkyTEM and Ramboll, the MGA used a helicopter carrying a geophysical sensor to map the freshwater/seawater interface under the ocean floor.

DualEM Geophysical Surveys

In partnership with Ramboll and the State Water Resources Control Board, the MGA is piloting the use of the DualEM geophysical survey technology to hone in on ideal project locations and reduce the need for expensive soil borings.

Managed Aquifer Recharge Mapping

In partnership with the University of California at Santa Cruz, and the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, the MGA has been using newly completed soil suitability maps to narrow down possible project locations for storm water infiltration. Here is a link to a good explanation of the recharge suitability maps and their applicability.