Estimation of Aquifer Parameters from Pumping Test Data by Genetic Algorithm Optimization Technique

Abstract

Adequate and reliable estimates of aquifer parameters are of utmost importance for proper management of vital groundwater resources. The pumping (aquifer) test is the standard technique for estimating various hydraulic properties of aquifer systems, viz., transmissivity (T), hydraulic conductivity (K), storage coefficient (S), and leakance (L), for which the graphical method is widely used. In the present study, the efficacy of the genetic algorithm (GA) optimization technique is assessed in estimating aquifer parameters from the time-drawdown pumping test data. Computer codes were developed to optimize various aquifer parameters under different hydrogeologic conditions by using the GA technique. Applicability, adequacy, and robustness of the developed codes were tested using 12 sets of the published and unpublished aquifer test data. The aquifer parameters were also estimated by the graphical method using AquiferTest software, and were compared with those obtained by the GA technique. The GA technique yi...