A proposed framework for hydrogeological conceptual modelling
The process whereby hydrogeologists interpret the available information to produce a justifiable
set of simplifying assumptions to describe a groundwater system is called conceptual modelling.
Although this process is inherent in all hydrogeological assessments and can therefore be regarded
as synonymous with hydrogeological practice there are no standard specifications for it. A
framework for conceptual modelling has been designed to both assist in the planning and
process of the work and to provide an audit trail to facilitate independent scrutiny. The
application of this framework is illustrated by two case histories, one of a small-scale
investigation for a proposed cemetery and the other of an investigation of the migration of
a large-scale sulphate plume in a public supply aquifer. This framework is applicable across
the full range of scales of hydrogeological systems, and indeed is readily extendable to other
analogous areas of endeavour in the management of natural resources.
Reference
Brassington, F.C. & Younger, P. L. (2010) A proposed framework for hydrogeological conceptual modelling.
Water and Environment Journal 24 261-273pp
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