Wednesday, December 5, 2007 : 11:00 a.m.
Numerical Modeling of a Complex Regional Aquifer Recharge and Recovery System (R3) in the Upper Mojave River Basin, California
The R3 program comprises surface recharge of large quantities of imported State Water Project (SWP) water to the highly conductive materials of the Mojave River Floodplain aquifer, and construction of groundwater production and delivery facilities at an optimal location down-gradient. Due to the scope of this project and the complexity of the system a comprehensive mathematic model has been developed for use in optimization of system design and operational parameters.
The ground water model developed for this project is a comprehensive multi-phase (saturated-unsaturated) transient model of the upper Mojave River Basin including the Mojave River and various surface recharge facilities. The 3D hydrogeologic conceptual model was developed using a large body of geological and geophysical data acquired over many years by MWA and other agencies. The model incorporates detailed local structural and hydrostratigraphic features interpreted by area specialists. The transient model contains an accurate representation of the Mojave River including storm event flood flows and ground water interaction through the unsaturated zone using an innovative formulation developed by Schlumberger Water Services.
The model has been used to evaluate recharge and recovery system design and operational alternatives. Because the potential effects of the R3 program on nearby anthropogenic and natural hydrogeologic features are a primary consideration, quantitative evaluation metrics are used to rank alternatives on the long term effects to riparian areas, existing production wells, septic systems, and areas of liquefaction risk.
This presentation provides an overview of conceptual model construction, transient modeling results, and the alternatives evaluation process.
Robert A. Will, Ph.D., PG, PGP, Schlumberger Water Services Dr. Will has worked as a geoscientist and engineer in petroleum exploration and water resource management since 1981. He holds a B.A. in Geology, an M.Sc. in Geophysics, and a Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering. His experience includes geophysical operations, reservoir and aquifer characterization, and transient process modeling. Robert is active in applying oilfleld subsurface modeling and simulation technologies to water resource management problems including multi-phase and multi-component flow, mass transport, and geomechanical processes. Dr. Will is a Professional Geologist in the state of Texas and Professional Geophysicist in the state of California.
Michelle Yeh, Schlumberger Water Services Michelle Yeh joined Schlumberger Water Services four years ago and has been working as a hydrogeologist in the characterization and simulation of groundwater aquifers. Ms. Yeh is experienced in the use of traditional groundwater modeling software as well as modeling tools newly adapted from the oilfield industry. Prior to joining Schlumberger Water Services, Ms. Yeh worked with an environmental consulting firm providing environmental and compliance services for industrial facilities. She holds an M.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Lance Eckhart, PG, CHG, REA, Mojave Water Agency Lance Eckhart is the Principal Hydrogeologist for Mojave Water Agency’s Water Resources Department in Apple Valley, California. He is responsible for management of numerous water management projects in the Agency’s 5,000 square mile boundary within Southern California’s High Desert area. In his current role, Lance oversees the operations of technical and professional staff handling all water resource related activities for the entire 5,000 square mile MWA service area. Mr. Eckhart holds degrees in Geology and Environmental Science and is a Professional Geologist, Certified Hydrogeologist, and Registered Environmental Assessor in the State of California.
Richard C. Slade, PG, R.C. Slade & Associates Richard Slade is President and Principal Groundwater Geologist for Richard C. Slade & Associates LLC, North Hollywood, California. His education includes B.A. and M.S. degrees in geology and engineering geology. He has PG and CEG licenses in California. Mr. Slade has conducted detailed studies of numerous groundwater basins, and has sited and designed hundreds of water wells using geophysical electric log correlations during his 40-year career in groundwater.
Mark S. Williamson, PE, GEI Consultants, Bookman-Edmonston Division Mr. Williamson is a registered civil engineer with over 26 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. He has provided civil engineering expertise in numerous aspects of water resources, including hydroelectric, water supply, design, construction management, water distribution system modeling, dam safety, surface and groundwater hydrology, flood control, and project management. Mr. Williamson holds an M.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Washington.