The Groundwater Ecology (GWE) network provides the first strategic, nationally representative monitoring network for groundwater fauna in England. It integrates in‑situ water quality measurements, groundwater level data, and biological sampling to build a holistic picture of aquifer condition. Its purpose is to reveal the interdependencies between geology, chemistry, habitat structure and groundwater fauna, and set a baseline for groundwater condition. The dataset supports a range of research and analytical questions, including assessments of groundwater ecosystem health, species richness, natural capital valuation, and relationships between environmental pressures and ecological response.
A first round of monitoring, where a proportion of network sites were sampled, was completed in 2024. In 2025, a near complete network of 75 sites was delivered. By the end of the programme in 2028, we will have completed at least 3 full rounds of monitoring at all sites.
The GWE network is a project funded by the UK Government through Defra's NCEA programme. The NCEA is Defra's largest research and development (R&D) programme. It will produce a baseline of our natural assets by 2029; enabling a natural capital approach to policy and decision-making.
Users should ensure they have read the NCEA Analysis Ready Data Limitations Statement and dataset specific limitations/caveats outlined in the Data Dictionary.
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