Podcast: What’s Up Bainbridge:
Geology presentation over beer on Apr 4th about our fresh-water aquifers

In this 8-minute podcast, local geologist Dr. Greg Geehan talks with BCB host Sonia Scaer about the island’s aquifers and issues of water adequacy to be discussed in his upcoming Open Mic Science presentation titled “Bainbridge Island’s Glacial Heritage“. The talk will occur over drinks at the Treehouse Cafe, 8pm Monday April 4th.

Greg emphasizes what aquifer modeling tells us about our current and future carrying capacity with our underground fresh water. He explains how the glacial strata and structural faulting affect our aquifer systems. There is geological evidence that past glacial incursions shaped our island both externally and internally. An “aquifer” is an underground layer of water-bearing permeable rock or sediment from which groundwater can be extracted, as it is on Bainbridge Island, where all of our fresh water is drawn from our aquifers.

Greg talks about why the models of our aquifers have proven to be useful ways for our City to address local concerns and issues related to our available groundwater. His message is that even though there currently appears to be an adequate fresh water supply for our current rate of use and some degree of growth, we need to be observant as our island’s demand for water evolves over time, and more studies of the type the City has been sponsoring over the past 15 years continue to be helpful.

In his Open Mic Science presentation, Greg will discuss scientific aspects of Bainbridge Island groundwater including the underlying geology, i.e. its sources and pathways to the island, future water budget projections, and factors that can affect the long term sustainability of our aquifer system.

The pub at the Treehouse Café in Lynwood Center is the venue for monthly first Monday “Open Mic Science” conversations. The public is invited to grab a beverage and explore various aspects of science and technology in an informal, social setting. Inspired by Café Scientifique, the gatherings are committed to public understanding of science. For more details about the Science Café program on Bainbridge Island, please check the Open Mic Science website.

Credits: BCB host: Sonia Scaer; BCB audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.