Dupuit-Forchheimer approximation may underestimate groundwater flow to San Joaquin River

• Main Authors: Mark Grismer, Elias A. Rashmawi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources 1993-01-01
• Series: California Agriculture
• Online Access: http://calag.ucanr.edu/archive/?article=ca.v047n01p12

Based on the commonly used Dupuit-Forchheimer approximation, estimates of groundwater contributions to flows in the San Joaquin River may be too low. Why? Because the vertical ground-water flows through the base of the channel have been neglected in estimates. Scientists found that flows have been underestimated by as much as 25%; such flows may degrade river water quality more than anticipated. The findings suggest the need to closely monitor subsurface runoff. A new look at the estimates is important to the development of water/salinity management plans.