Using Temperature Sensing Equipment to Detect Groundwater and Surface Water Interactions in Long Lake, New Brighton, MN

Abstract

Temperature sensing equipment is a cost effective way to determine areas in water bodies where groundwater may be seeping into the surface waters. Data records of noticeable temperature differences can indicate points where groundwater may be mixing with the surface water. Identifying these areas can help in many studies including determining pollutant loading and water level fluctuations.

The research reported in this manuscript used Dallas Thermochron DS1922L-F5 temperature loggers to map the south lobe of Long Lake, which is a deep, urban lake. Based on this sampling event a few areas were identified for possible groundwater inputs. These areas include the connection to the north lobe of Long Lake, the channel connection to Pike Lake in the west, and at the south end of the lake. The results demonstrate the successful aspects of this method and developmental tools for future projects of this nature.