The influence of detailed aquifer characterization on groundwater flow and transport models at Schoolcraft, Michigan

Aquifer characterization is a key aspect of any groundwater study, however it is difficult to determine when an aquifer has been adequately characterized. This study explored several methods of describing aquifer properties and the value of knowing those properties for developing accurate groundwater flow and transport simulations. Data collected from an aquifer bioremediation study in Schoolcraft Michigan was used for this research. The value of incorporating various levels of aquifer characterization was assessed using groundwater flow and transport simulations. The relationship between several aquifer properties including grain-size, ground penetrating radar velocity, and hydraulic conductivity were explored using rock physics approaches. Regional aquifer porosity estimates were estimated using ground penetrating radar tomography, and the impact of these porosity values were evaluated in solute transport models. The approaches developed through this research can be applied to future studies to help design cost-effective sampling strategies for detailed aquifer characterization.