A methodological approach for the selection of groundwater monitoring points: application in typical Greek basins

This paper aims at proposing a methodology for the compilation of groundwater monitoring networks. The methodology is based on the implementation of a simple algorithm that assists the objective selection of the most appropriate sites out of a large inventory, which is originally drawn. The proposed algorithm was developed in the framework of a research project related to the study of possible residues of 1,3 Dichloropropene in groundwater, in four representative basins of Greece. It considers a number of criteria in order to ensure that the most appropriate and representative sites are selected for the scope of this particular project. This algorithm aims at the establishment of specific criteria the adoption of which may minimize the subjectivity incorporated in the selection of monitoring points, especially when different field operators perform this exercise at geographically distant basins. Subject to the necessary amendments in order for the criteria considered to meet the specific targets of a given project, it is suggested that the proposed algorithm may be applicable at all cases of groundwater monitoring networks establishment.