Türkiye Jeoloji Bülteni

Finite Element Model for the Erzin Plain (Hatay) Groundwater Basin

Abstract: In this paper a finite element model is presented for the unconfined aquifer of the Erzinplain. In the model governing groundwater flow aquations are modified by introducing Dupuit assumptions for the non-steady state unconfined aquifer condition.Application of the model to the Erzin plain groundwater basin is accomplished by calibrationof the model for the irrigation season of 1978 and verification for the period 1978-1982. Sensitivityanalyses are conducted for aquifer parameters, mesh size, boundary conditions and recharge - dischargerates.Simulation of the response of the aquifer to chan ging hydrological conditions is accomplished bymeans of five control wells for which long term head distribution data are available. The resultsobtained have shown a very good correlation between the measured and the computed heads.