Evaluation of Streamflow Depletion for Vertical Anisotropic Aquifers
Xunhong Chen and Yanfeng Yin
DOI: 10.2190/749R-PCVR-4K4H-GW66
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 and vertical hydraulic conductivity values, as well as the ratio of 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. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.