Stochastic modeling of a lava-flow aquifer system

Open-File Report 2014-1179
Prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Energy
By:  and 

Links

Abstract

This report describes preliminary three-dimensional geostatistical modeling of a lava-flow aquifer system using a multiple-point geostatistical model. The purpose of this study is to provide a proof-of-concept for this modeling approach. An example of the method is demonstrated using a subset of borehole geologic data and aquifer test data from a portion of the Calico Hills Formation, a lava-flow aquifer system that partially underlies Pahute Mesa, Nevada. Groundwater movement in this aquifer system is assumed to be controlled by the spatial distribution of two geologic units—rhyolite lava flows and zeolitized tuffs. The configuration of subsurface lava flows and tuffs is largely unknown because of limited data. The spatial configuration of the lava flows and tuffs is modeled by using a multiple-point geostatistical simulation algorithm that generates a large number of alternative realizations, each honoring the available geologic data and drawn from a geologic conceptual model of the lava-flow aquifer system as represented by a training image. In order to demonstrate how results from the geostatistical model could be analyzed in terms of available hydrologic data, a numerical simulation of part of an aquifer test was applied to the realizations of the geostatistical model.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Stochastic modeling of a lava-flow aquifer system
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2014-1179
DOI 10.3133/ofr20141179
Year Published 2014
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston VA
Contributing office(s) Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
Description iv, 18 p.
Country United States
State Nevada
Other Geospatial Pahute Mesa
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details