Date of Award

Spring 2024

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

Thomas P Ballestero

Second Advisor

Alison Watts

Third Advisor

Stephen Jones

Abstract

Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) Systems are utilized globally for underground water storage and subsequent retrieval, serving as a key water management strategy. In Durham, NH, an ASR system was established in the Spruce Hole formation to address various water supply needs, including meeting future demand, reducing treatment costs, and providing backup supply options. This system replenishes the aquifer using water from the Lamprey River. Given the importance of microbial communities in groundwater quality, understanding their composition is crucial. This study explores the microbial diversity in the Spruce Hole aquifer, comparing it to the surface water used for recharge and assessing the impact of precipitation. Samples from four wells were collected and subjected to DNA sequencing, revealing significantly greater microbial abundance and richness in groundwater compared to the Lamprey River, albeit with shared bacterial taxa. Methane, nitrate, nitrite, iron, and sulfur oxidizing bacteria and archaea were identified, and over 30% of the aquifer community comprises uncultured bacteria and understudied organisms. The Spruce Hole bog, situated within this formation, significantly influences the microbial composition of the aquifer. Periods of lower precipitation correlate with heightened microbial diversity, contrasting with rainy months. While no pathogenic species were detected, the presence of opportunistic pathogenic bacteria underscores the necessity for routine well maintenance. Proactive measures are essential to curb the proliferation of harmful bacteria, thereby mitigating potential risks to public health.

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