Maps and Models
The information provided by Willowstick data following our non-intrusive surveys is comparable to the way an angiogram allows surgeons to accurately characterise a patient’s blood flow prior to critical heart surgery. Performing a Willowstick survey allows for improved understanding of groundwater connections before remediation. This allows for more targeted methods to be employed with reduced exploration and remediation costs. Working closely with the data analysis team at Willowstick Technologies in the USA, the field team receive preliminary data analysis overnight whilst in the field allowing for a dynamic approach to data collection with subtle changes to the survey configurations being made to optimise the information the client receives. Following the data collection stage, the findings of the investigation are clearly presented to the client in a comprehensive and detailed report. Our maps and models provide a clear and informative picture of the nature and direction of our findings in both plan and elevation.
2D Maps
The initial maps that are provided to our clients are 2D. These maps allow us to rapidly communicate with the client on survey results within the first day or two of starting fieldwork. This allows for collaboration on how the fieldwork should progress based on active observations. Our clients see initial results on every survey we perform before we leave the site. This puts the client in control of the investigation and avoids any surprises.
The above 2D map shows preliminary interpretation of subsurface water seepage pathways (yellow lines) of dam seepage
3D Models
Understanding subsurface water connections is critical to enhancing site conceptual models so that better decisions can be made regarding the monitoring and remediation of a particular site. Willowstick employs two different modelling techniques when producing 3D groundwater models. They are Electric Current Flow Models and Electric Current Distribution Models. They are explained in more detail below.
3D Electric Current Flow Models (ECF)
Understanding subsurface water connections is critical to enhancing site conceptual models so that better decisions can be made regarding the monitoring and remediation of a particular site. Willowstick employs two different modelling techniques when producing 3D groundwater models. They are Electric Current Flow Models and Electric Current Distribution Models. They are explained in more detail below.
Electric Current Distribution Models (ECD)
– These models depict the distribution of electrical current through a given site. The data is subjected to an inversion algorithm (mathematical model) designed to identify the distribution of 3D electric current flow within the study area. This modelling process provides clients detailed views of how seepage paths are connected through their site. This model is then provided to the clients for incorporation into their own site models.
The ECD model above shows the distribution of electrical current and how meteoric water was infiltrating into a deep aquifer.