Using groundwater mathematical modeling as an essential management tool : case studies from Syria

Abstract EN

-Groundwater mathematical models are efficient management and planning tool for complex aquifer systems.

They provide a framework for synthesizing field information and for further understanding how the system works.

They may identify areas where more field information is required.

They also aid in selecting an optimum set of operating conditions to use the aquifer without endangering its sustainability.This paper presents three case studies from Syria and discusses how they have been used as a management tool.

In the Northern part of Khabour basin, the mathematical model helps in setting up new monitoring system and elaborates the effect of increasing groundwater pumping on lateral flow from Turkey.

In Zabadani sub-basin the model predicts the influence of additional pumping from new sites and impact of climate change on water resources according to different scenarios.

In Hasia sub-basin, the model delineated wellfield capture zones and tested the impact of different pumping scheme on groundwater level In the last decade, several models were developed which aimed to help respective authorities in their efforts to manage groundwater resources