Characterization of Shallow Groundwater in Detroit: Environmental and Hydraulic Considerations

Session: Furthering Interdisciplinary Urban Groundwater Quality and Urban Sustainability Research

Brendan O'Leary, Wayne State University - Engineering, [email protected]
Carol Miller, Wayne State University, 2154 Engineering Bldg, [email protected]

Abstract

Groundwater plays a critical role in the vitality of the Great Lakes Basin, supplying drinking water, industrial water supply, cooling water for power generation, and irrigation water for farms in rural areas and landscape in urban areas. It also is interconnected with surface water features, including the lakes, streams, and reservoirs of the region. Therefore, the quality of the groundwater is crucial and has potential economic, health, and social implications for the region. The traditional focus of environmental and health concern, especially in urban areas, has been on surface water rather than groundwater, following the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality. The lack of data on groundwater (especially shallow, near-surface) flow, quality, and transport in urban centers is a threat to the health of the Great Lakes Basin.  Urban groundwater movement is currently being evaluated at Recovery Park in Detroit, Michigan.  This project, centered at Recovery Park, will serve as a model for evaluating the urban shallow groundwater movement in Detroit.  This model will help develop and evaluate the potential risks posed to urban environments and human health.