GroMoPo Metadata for Guarani Aquifer Entre Rioas-Salto model

The Water Department at the North Littoral Regional University Center of the Republic University (UDELAR) and the National Water Directorate of Uruguay (DINAGUA) developed a numerical model of the Guarani Aquifer for managing the thermal wells in the area of Concordia (Entre Rios, Argentina) and Salto (Uruguay). The model geometry was built integrating geological and geophysical information. The contact surfaces of the sedimentary package with basalt and basement was reconstructed. By reinterpreting pumping tests estimates transmissivity and storage coefficient. Due to the shortage of piezometric measures the calibration process was carried out simulating the evolution of the aquifer from 1992 to 2002, considering the piezometric levels obtained at the time a new well was drill. Through a series of model simulations the requirements that DINAGUA demands to grant operating licenses in Uruguayan were evaluated. By modelling a set of scenarios the minimum distance criterion that future wells must maintain with existing was assessed. The results showed that, some scenarios that meet the current criteria have a greater impact on the system than others who do not. This highlights the need to consider mathematical modelling in the criteria design for aquifer management, and especially in assessing the impact of specific actions on the system. Keywords: Guarani Aquifer, mathematical model, Well-management, policy evaluation.