Evaluation of streamflow depletion for vertical anisotropic aquifers

Xunhong Chen, Yanfeng Yin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

26 Scopus citations

Abstract

This article analyzes the effects of aquifer hydraulic conductivity on streamflow depletion due to the use of groundwater for irrigation. The USGS MODFLOW model was used for calculation of streamflow depletion. Simulation results indicate that aquifer horizontal (Kr) and vertical (Kz) hydraulic conductivity values, as well as the ratio of Kr/Kz, are critical parameters in the calculation of streamflow depletion. The hydraulic conductivity of streambeds is another important parameter to be taken into account. The process of stream leakage after cessation of pumping (residual leakage) is also dependent on the anisotropy of aquifer hydraulic conductivity. Results show that an analytical solution will significantly overestimate the streamflow depletion for a strongly anisotropic aquifer. This article also discusses the procedures for collecting high-quality data for calculation of the vertical hydraulic conductivity in aquifers.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)55-70
Number of pages16
JournalJournal of Environmental Systems
Volume27
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1999

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Environmental Science

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