Optimization of groundwater monitoring network in terms of mass transfer modeling

Abstract

In accordance with the ‘Requirements for Monitoring Solid Mineral Deposits’, groundwater monitoring is carried out in the area of the actual mineral deposit and man-made mining facilities, as well as in the zone of significant influence of the field development and other production activities of mining, which affect the subsoil and other components of the natural environment. The development of an underground water monitoring network using mathematical modeling is shown, the existing monitoring network is analyzed, the model of mass transfer of the main pollutant of underground water is developed, and the predictive calculations of mass transfer are performed. The migration model of the test area was created using MT3D program, which allows 3D modeling of mass processes in the flow of underground water. The boundaries of the model area are determined subject to the outline of the catchment area around the quarry, the project increase in depth and the project cut-back in the quarry, as well as to the presence of natural and man-made sources and facilities which can have influence on groundwater regime. The monitoring system allows regular-based observations toward prediction of changes in the condition of underground waters under the influence of the large-scale water withdrawal and other induced and natural factors. The introduction of such monitoring system can enable prevention of prevention of likely changes in the condition of groundwater and proper adjustment of drainage system operation. The numerical modeling data made it possible to optimize the cost of additional inspection well drilling.