Preparation of Hydrogeological Documentation After Completion of Geological Works Related to Groundwater
Purpose of preparing hydrogeological documentation
According to Article 90(1) of the Geological and Mining Law, hydrogeological documentation is prepared for the purpose of:
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Determining the resources and properties of groundwater;
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Defining hydrogeological conditions related to the intended:a) execution of dewatering for the purpose of mineral extraction,
b) injection of water into the rock mass,
c) execution of construction dewatering using boreholes,
d) implementation of projects that may negatively affect groundwater, including causing its contamination,
e) underground non-reservoir storage of substances or underground waste disposal,
f) surface waste disposal,
g) establishment of protective zones for groundwater reservoirs,
h) termination or change of the dewatering level of decommissioned mining facilities,
i) underground storage of carbon dioxide.
When is the hydrogeological documentation required?
According to Article 82(1)(5) of the Geological and Mining Law, conducting geological works based on a submitted geological works project requires ongoing documentation of the progress of geological activities, including geological works and their results.
Elements of hydrogeological documentation
According to Article 90(2) of the Geological and Mining Law, hydrogeological documentation, depending on its purpose, specifies in particular:
- The geological structure and hydrogeological conditions of the studied area;
- Conditions of groundwater occurrence, including the characteristics of aquifers at a given level;
- Information presenting the chemical composition, physical properties, and other characteristics of the water;
- Possibilities for water abstraction;
- Boundaries of the proposed protection zones for groundwater intakes and protective areas for groundwater reservoirs;
- Measures necessary for environmental protection, including those related to land properties, associated with the activity for which the documentation is prepared.
Detailed requirements for hydrogeological documentation are specified in the Regulation of the Minister of the Environment of 18 November 2016 on hydrogeological documentation and engineering-geological documentation (Journal of Laws of 2016, item 2033).