ADVANCES IN INTEGRATING HYDROGEOLOGY IN VIRGINIA'S GROUNDWATER REGULATORY PROGRAM

Virginia's groundwater withdrawal permitting program was developed at a time when there was very limited understanding of the coastal plain aquifer system. Recent advances in our understanding of the coastal plain hydrogeology and development of a new state-of-the-art groundwater model have challenged long held political, legal, and scientific assumptions. This presentation will explain how Virginia is trying to integrate advances in our understanding and management tools to promote sustainable aquifer management.