Modeling Direct Recharge of Surficial Aquifers

Abstract

A one-dimensional, physically-based computer model was developed for predicting direct groundwater recharge. The model was verified using three years of data from an instrumented site in east central Minnesota. Although the processes of infiltration and redistribution during frozen soil periods were not modeled, the model is capable of operating during both frozen and non-frozen soil periods. The model includes submodels for evapotranspiration, soil water extraction, snowmelt, surface depressional storage, infiltration and redistribution. The model predicts water table level and soil moisture. Water extraction may also be modeled. The model predicted both water table levels and soil moisture with reasonable accuracy over the the three year period modeled.