By Pattie Amison, Practice Area Manager and Principal Hydrogeologist
As a principal hydrogeologist at Falkirk Consulting, I think about groundwater every day. After more than 20 years in this field, that’s expected—but everyone else should care too. Groundwater holds about 30% of Earth’s freshwater and provides roughly a quarter of the water humans withdraw, while being a vital source of flow that sustains rivers and wetlands that ecosystems and communities depend on.
Historically, groundwater has been “out of sight, out of mind”, overshadowed by more visible rivers and lakes. Weak regulation in some jurisdictions and poor understanding of groundwater science have allowed pumping to outpace natural recharge, lowering water levels and, in some regions, triggering land subsidence that damages infrastructure and permanently reduces aquifer storage. At the same time, effluent disposal, waste storage, spills, and other activities have degraded groundwater quality, turning secure drinking‑water sources into long‑term liabilities.
When groundwater is poorly understood, it doesn’t just harm aquifers; it can jeopardize projects. Unexpectedly high groundwater levels and inflows can destabilize slopes, complicate excavation, and force unplanned dewatering and treatment, driving cost overruns and schedule delays. Poor baseline data and late engagement of hydrogeologists can leave behind a legacy of perpetual pumping and treatment instead of a reclaimed site that is safe and productive for future generations.
There is good news. In British Columbia, it has now been ten years since the Water Sustainability Act came into force and modernized the management of provincial water resources to include groundwater for the first time. Education initiatives like The Groundwater Project—which offers free groundwater books and resources globally—are building a new generation of groundwater‑literate citizens.
This is why I’m working with a group of industry professionals to host Groundwater Revealed, a free open house for high school and college-age youth held during the BC Groundwater Association conference. I’m grateful for Falkirk’s support in attending the conference and for the flexible work environment that allows me to volunteer with organizations such as the BC Society of Engineering and Geoscience to strengthen our community and help more people understand the importance of groundwater.
Event Details
Groundwater Revealed is a free open house for high school and college-age youth during the BC Groundwater Association conference in Kamloops, April 10, 2026, from 9–11 a.m.
Visit the event website to learn more.