Hydrogeology Field Camp

Overview

An intensive three-week field course (ESCI 4971W for 4 undergrad credits and 5971 for 2 graduate credits) that is offered each summer, typically from mid-July through the beginning of August. This 3-week field camp (about 2 weeks in person and 1 week hybrid) focuses on our field site near Akeley, MN, in a glacial/fluvial aquifer system. Enrollment is limited to 30 students in order to maintain a low student to instructor ratio.

The course is designed to teach students how to evaluate hydrogeologic problems by collecting and analyzing hydrogeologic, physical, and chemical field data. Students gain proficiency using state-of-the-art equipment as they study the surface and subsurface flow within a heavily instrumented groundwater flow system.  

We typically cover the following topics:

• Aquifer testing techniques and data analysis using conventional and computational methods for hydrogeologic characterization (e.g., slug test, single- and multiple-well pumping test analysis).

• Groundwater flow and pump test modeling using field data.

• Solute and contaminant transport in hydrologic systems.

• Analyzing Groundwater/surface water interactions including lakes and wetlands.

• Hydrogeologic mapping and surveying using precision GPS and conventional surveying tools.

• Evapotranspiration and groundwater recharge monitoring using infiltrometer.

• Stream gauging and surface water monitoring.

• Surficial geologic mapping of glacial sediments.

• Recognition, location, and manipulation of hydrologic features and information in a GIS environment on laptops.

• Application of LiDAR data to field mapping and analysis of hydrogeologic environments.

• Hydrochemistry: sampling, field tests, chemical analysis, interpretation, and reporting.

• Borehole geophysical techniques.

• Analysis and identification of Quaternary glacial deposits.

• Time for write-ups and extra-curricula activities (e.g., beach volleyball, biking, canoeing, hiking, swimming, etc...)

• Accommodation at Itasca Biological Research Station for the 2 weeks (in person portion) where all meals are prepared for us and various resources are provided including a large dining area with free popcorn 24/7, a game room, wifi internet, laundry facilities, kayaks and paddleboards, bikes, and much more. Itasca is located at the headwaters of the Mighty Mississippi river, and is within the larger Itasca State Park. Students are encouraged to explore the park via hiking and biking in their free time. 

See "How to Apply" for application form.

**Contact Dr. Peter Kang (pkkang@umn.edu) and Dr. Crystal Ng (gcng@umn.edu) for more information**

In-Person location: 

Lodging will be at the UMN Itasca Biological Station. 

Fieldwork will take place at the UMN Hydrogeology Field Site near Akeley, MN.

**Contact Dr. Peter Kang (pkkang@umn.edu) and Dr. Crystal Ng (gcng@umn.edu) for more information**

General information:

This field camp makes an effort to be accessible.

Our field area is relatively level grassy terrain and most wells are within a 2 to 3 acre area.

Elevation of field area is about 1,400 feet above sea level.

The Itasca Research Station, where will be staying, meets ADA accessibility standards.

We will work with you to try to meet special needs or accommodations. 

Please contact us with specific questions.

Our staff work with the University of Minnesota Office for Equity and Diversity utilizing Best Practices and Universal Design.

The University of Minnesota Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories is located on land ceded by the Mississippi and Pillager Bands of Ojibwe in the Treaty of Washington, commonly known as the 1855 Treaty. We acknowledge the layered history of this place, and welcome efforts to discuss and address the complexities of the present.

Instructors and TAs medical/mental certifications