In this example, a numerical groundwater model was utilized to simulate the flow of groundwater within a wide alluvial aquifer (flood plain). Pumping of a municipal wellfield (4 wells shown in red) captures groundwater that would otherwise drain to the river. The extent of the "capture zone" can be estimated from the model. As shown, the wells appear to be vulnerable to any potential contaminants within most of the floodplain. Appropriate land use controls in this area will help to protect the community's water supply.
Numerical Groundwater Modelling
Not surprisingly, a groundwater model is only as good as the field data and hydrogeological interpretations it is based on. Preparing and calibrating a complex, 3-D numerical model requires a substantial amount of high quality field data in order to create a reasonably accurate representation of real-world conditions.
Test wells, borehole explorations and water level monitoring data are commonly collected in support of these complex models.
