Parallelization and Linearization of Stream Depletion Analyses

Osborn, Colby

Parallelization and Linearization of Stream Depletion Analyses

Thursday, September 8, 2016: 9:45 a.m.

Colby Osborn , Natural Resources, State of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE

The conventional numerical method of stream depletion analyses are often computationally demanding. This example demonstrates Nebraska’s Department of Natural Resources use of HTCondor and MODFLOW-SDA to parallelize and linearize the stream depletion analyses, respectively, to enormously reduce the computational time without deteriorating the accuracy in the conventional method. MODFLOW-SDA linearizes the flow equation in MODFLOW by assuming unchanged aquifer thickness within a time step period. MODFLOW-SDA is combined with HTCondor to compute the stream depletion distribution map in a parallel manner. Example results produced with this method applied are compared with results from the conventional method. The results compare favorably with those simulated using the conventional method, with significant improvement in computational efficiency. This method takes advantage of the existing computer resources within the Department and proves to be an effective solution for the high computational demands of stream depletion analyses.

Colby Osborn, Natural Resources, State of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE

Colby Osborn received a B.S. in geology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2014. He was hired by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources in 2014 as a Specialist in the Integrated Water Management division. His major duties include: conducting specialized and complex hydraulic and hydrologic analyses on relationships between groundwater/surface water, and developing scientific and technical data and analyses for the integrated surface water/groundwater management planning process.