What is a Groundwater Model?
A Groundwater Model is a tool used to represent or approximate the natural groundwater system. It uses mathematical equations and procedures to simulate water levels and streamflow of a given area. We instruct the computer program to consider several factors to model the behavior of the aquifer over time. These factors include physical boundaries of the aquifer, recharge, pumping, interaction with streams, and other phenomenon.
A groundwater model serves as a framework for gathering and organizing data. No model is perfect. However, with sufficient data, the assumptions used in the model development process can be calibrated to accurately simulate groundwater levels and streamflow. A groundwater model can help us better understand how an aquifer responds to various hydrologic conditions. In addition, we can gain valuable insight into the various factors that affect site-specific areas in the model. The results of the model assist in making water management decisions.