Groundwater Resource Quantity Assessment Thematic Paper 1.2
This document provides guidance on the choice of an appropriate and value for money approach to ground water resource quantity assessment
Abstract
Groundwater resource quantity assessment approaches can range from very basic to highly complex. This paper provides guidance on the choice of an appropriate approach which will provide - best value for money, and which allows for realistic expectation of the value of the approach. It promotes a rational and phased approach with basic approaches preceding more advanced ones. With the advance of computer technology it is all too tempting to opt for very advanced assessment approaches without the backing of good data and capable staff resources.
This paper promotes a rational and phased approach with basic approaches preceding more advanced ones and pointing to better understanding of data needs for such advanced approaches. The value of an advanced approach can be hugely limited by poor data and the term “rubbish in, rubbish out”, often used when referring to advanced groundwater models, is very relevant. Groundwater resource assessment, particularly when related to regional and complex aquifer systems, is a long term process. It can take many years and requires continuous improvement through use of new data and improved resource simulation.
Citation
WRDMAP. Groundwater Resource Quantity Assessment [Thematic Paper 1.2]. WRDMAP, China (2010) 40 pp.
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