Combining novel monitoring techniques with modelling and optimal sensor placement for more reliable prediction of river - groundwater exchange fluxes
The aim of the research collaboration is the development of improved methods for simulating coupled surface water – groundwater flow using predictive models and model-base optimization of monitoring networks. The data worth of different observation types is analysed with respect to their utility for increasing the reliability of model predictions. In addition, pragmatic tools are developed to reduce predictive model uncertainty by optimal extension of monitoring networks. These methods are generally also applicable to evaluate the impact of land use and climate change scenarios.
Modelling perched river recharge to the Wairau aquifer, New Zealand
The proposed methods are applied to two different river-groundwater system of different spatial scales. The Steinlach site near Tübingen, Germany, was established in 2010 to investigate hyporheic exchange fluxes. The other site is a shallow gravel aquifer at the Wairau Plains near Blenheim, New Zealand, which is managed for drinking water and irrigation. The challenges of this particular system lie in a braided river channel, highly-conductive heterogeneous gravels, and variable perched river conditions. The project contributes to a better understanding of the dynamic river-groundwater exchange processes. It is conducted in close collaboration with Lincoln Agritech, Christchurch, and the Marlborough District Council, Blenheim.
Duration: 2014-2015
Funding: International Bureau of the BMBF, Germany, and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, New Zealand