Impacts of dams on surrounding groundwater levels

Abstract

The increasing number of dams built to address surface water problems has attracted the awareness of engineers about the impact of water in dams on surrounding groundwater levels. Some of the benefits of a dam include reducing peak flooding and storing excess water during the rainy season for use in the dry season. However, it is necessary to be aware that an increase in surface water in one place can have a negative impact on the surrounding environment. This paper describes the relationship between the water level in the dam and changes in the surrounding groundwater level. This study did not discuss the type of soil layer. The analysis was carried out by observing the level of the surrounding wells. Following Darcy’s law of homogeneous isotropic steady-state flow, as well as the principle of the double-well pumping test, the well water level is used as a groundwater representation level. This research was conducted in the sub-districts around the Pandan Duri Dam. The results showed that water levels inside the dam had a significant impact on the surrounding groundwater levels. This is evidenced in this research that water levels of wells in Sakra District significantly changes following the change in water levels inside the Pandan Duri Dam.