Groundwater Sampling

This study investigates and elaborates the development and testing of a multilevel sampling device. The primary purpose of this device is to achieve multilevel sampling in a well simultaneously, producing samples that are representative of the in situ groundwater. The device has been designed to have four different depths from which extraction of groundwater samples can be performed. Testing of the device involves a two-part process. A laboratory based testing and field based testing.

The study area is located in a Swiss alpine valley at the border between Switzerland and France and is situated in Valais. It is delimited by the hydrologic catchment of the river “La Vièze de Morgins”. The catchment area is situated in the Municipality of Troistorrents and of Monthey. Its population is approximately 4500 inhabitants.

We present findings from a current project in the Hout Catchment, Limpopo Province in South Africa, In grounding the discussion, we propose a citizen science framework that builds on ideas of the living lab, trust and research integrity. The idea of research integrity is not only about ethics but also about methods and we propose participatory methods that are inclusive, just and fair.