What is the process of estimating groundwater levels at locations not explicitly measured using known data called?

The process of estimating groundwater levels at locations that have not been directly measured is known as groundwater interpolation. This technique involves using known groundwater level data points and applying statistical or mathematical methods to predict values in areas where measurements are lacking. Interpolation takes into account the spatial variation of groundwater levels and usually relies on methods such as kriging, inverse distance weighting, or triangulation to generate accurate estimations.

In this context, groundwater interpolation is particularly useful for creating groundwater maps or in scenarios where direct measurements are costly or impractical. By using available data from nearby monitoring wells or observation points, professionals can effectively estimate groundwater levels and gain insights into the groundwater system's behavior and trends. This is crucial for effective groundwater management, resource allocation, and environmental assessment.

Other methods, such as groundwater modeling, involve simulations of groundwater flow and behavior based on various parameters, but modeling typically requires a broader set of data and understanding of hydrological processes. Aquifer recharge refers to the process of water entering an aquifer, and surface water assessment pertains to the evaluation of surface water bodies rather than groundwater levels directly.