Basic Data uses several methods for data collection. For many years its primary groundwater-level measurement method has been an electronic sounder or a steel tape that takes a discrete measurement. BD uses these methods to measure a series of approximately 1,800 “index wells” annually across the State. In addition, BD periodically conducts basin sweeps to measure water levels for all accessible wells within a specific basin or sub-basin. View the Basic Data Fact Sheet for more information.

View a slide presentation of members of our BD staff taking a deep water-level measurement at the City of Williams' Rodeo Grounds Well # 55-584106.

In approximately 120 wells throughout the state, BD uses automated groundwater monitoring devices that record water levels on a predefined frequency on a continuous basis. BD deploys automated data collection systems in the form of pressure transducers and shaft encoders that measure water levels four times daily and store the data electronically. BD retrieves the data quarterly by downloading the data to a laptop or memory card. Data may also be retrieved from wells equipped with satellite telemetry systems for near real-time measurements. For more information please see our Statewide Automated Groundwater Monitoring Fact Sheet.