New method accurately estimates aquifer properties, improving groundwater management.
Researchers conducted field experiments in a low-transmissivity aquifer to test a method for estimating aquifer properties. By overflowing a well with water, they measured the volume entering the aquifer to determine its characteristics. Two tests showed different results: one indicated a well skin effect, while the other did not. The method used allowed for unique determination of some parameters, but others had a range of values. By carefully constructing test wells, non-unique estimates can be avoided. Transmissivity values obtained from different tests were in good agreement, suggesting the aquifer is relatively homogeneous near the test sites.