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Integrated Catchment Modelling as a Water Resources Management Tool
Author(s) -
RIPPON P. W.,
WYNESS A. J.
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
water and environment journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.437
H-Index - 37
eISSN - 1747-6593
pISSN - 1747-6585
DOI - 10.1111/j.1747-6593.1994.tb01164.x
Subject(s) - aquifer , hydrograph , hydrology (agriculture) , groundwater , baseflow , drainage basin , environmental science , hydrogeology , water resources , water resource management , groundwater flow , streamflow , geology , geography , ecology , geotechnical engineering , cartography , biology
Groundwater models are becoming increasingly important in water resources management. Most aquifers in the UK are closely linked with river systems, to which they contribute baseflow from seepages and springs. As a result, major groundwater abstractions almost inevitably affect river flows. To assess with confidence the effect of utilizing ground‐water resources, an aquifer and river system has to be linked within an integrated model which can simulate varying hydrogeological conditions throughout the catchment. The main features of an integrated catchment management model, which links aquifer and river systems, are described in this paper. The model has been applied to a number of catchments in southern England including the River Darent in Kent, which is probably the most well‐known and worst‐affected of all rivers identified nationally as suffering from over‐abstraction. The process of model preparation and calibration is illustrated with reference to the River Darent. Twenty years of river flow and groundwater hydrograph records were used in producing a close simulation of modelled and actual hydrological conditions. The model was then operated to assess a large number of possible options for restoring flows to the river. Examples of various management strategy simulations are given, leading to formulation of a water resources management plan for the Darent. This involved (a) reductions in selected abstractions, (b) flow augmentation using river support boreholes, and (c) meeting peak groundwater supply demands in drought periods.