Simulation of ground-water flow at Anchorage, Alaska, 1955-83

Water-Resources Investigations Report 88-4139
By: , and 

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Abstract

The groundwater system at Anchorage, Alaska was analyzed by using a two-layer three-dimensional mathematical model. By use of existing data, both nonpumping and pumping steady-state conditions and transient conditions were simulated. Under steady-state conditions, calculated directions of groundwater flow were similar to observed flow patterns, and calculated stream discharges generally were within 10% of observed values. However, in many parts of the modeled area computed hydraulic head values were more than 20 ft higher or lower than observed values. Hydraulic conductivity and transmissivity are the most sensitive hydraulic parameters under steady-state conditions. Under steady-state conditions, a pumping rate of 18.8 Mgal/d lowers heads in the confined aquifer by as much as 30 ft, but reduces streamflow by less than 5%. Transient conditions show that drawndowns due to withdrawals by production wells follow similar patterns of nearby observation wells. On the basis of analytical techniques, the confining layer does not appear to hold significant quantities of water. (USGS)
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Simulation of ground-water flow at Anchorage, Alaska, 1955-83
Series title Water-Resources Investigations Report
Series number 88-4139
DOI 10.3133/wri884139
Edition -
Year Published 1989
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey,
Description v, 41 p. :ill., maps ;28 cm.
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