Monitoring wells are specialized boreholes used to observe and measure the quality and quantity of groundwater. They are typically installed in areas where contamination is a concern, allowing scientists and environmental engineers to collect water samples and assess the health of the aquifer. These wells are equipped with various instruments to monitor water levels and detect pollutants. Data gathered from monitoring wells helps in managing water resources, understanding environmental impacts, and ensuring compliance with regulations related to groundwater protection, such as those set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).