Groundwater Budgeting for A Multi-Aquifer System Using Numerical Techniques PDF

Keywords

groundwater, multi-aquifer system, numerical techniques

Abstract

The use of numerical techniques to define the detailed water budget analysis for each individual aquifer in a multi-aquifer system under steady state and transient conditions has not been well established in the literature. In this work, numerical analysis has been used to define the water budget for each individual aquifer in a multi-aquifer system in Greater Dhahran Area. A quasi-three dimensional simulation model of groundwater flow in the multi-aquifer system was developed using USGS-MODFLOW. The MODCELL program of the USGS was used to calculate the cell-by-cell flow volumes in each aquifer. The output data files from MODCELL were converted from binary to ASCII formats using CONYML utility module of the USGS. A special program was developed to make the output data files of MODCELL compatible with CONYML utility module. The groundwater budget shows the importance of Umm Er Radhuma (UER) aquifer as a major water supply source to Dhahran area, as well as a potential recharge source to the Khobar and the Alat aquifers. The findings of the water budgeting are recommended to be used in improving the present and future water management and conservation schemes for the area . Similar techniques can be used to improve the groundwater use and management in other parts of the country as well as other arid regions.