Standard Ground Water Flow Demonstration Model

Department of Biological Systems Engineering
Groundwater Models

Standard Ground Water Model

Groundwater
Groundwater is an important natural resource. In Nebraska, between 80 and 85 percent of the population uses ground water as a drinking water supply. Groundwater is used for irrigation on approximately 7,000,000 acres of Nebraska land, and also used by livestock, industry and in a multitude of other ways. In many places, ground water discharges to the surface and serves as the base flow for streams. Groundwater's importance results, in part, from its widespread availability and use. Although Nebraska has a major groundwater supply, there are areas within the state where large withdrawals for irrigation have resulted in water level declines. As a result of an increasing number of water quality problems, there is a growing concern about protecting the quality of our groundwater supplies, along with conserving our available supply.

The groundwater flow models are used to demonstrate groundwater movement principles. Constructed with clear plexiglass, the model allows viewers to watch how the water within a groundwater system travels. For example, the movement of water towards a pumping well can be easily observed.

Water is introduced into the model using inverted quart jars at the ends of the model. A vacuum pump is used to "pump" water from the two wells; one well is in the unconfined aquifer, the other is in the confined aquifer. Observation wells show the ground water flow patterns as the wells are pumped. Colored water is used to easily demonstrate the water movement patterns. Colored water can also be used to show how contaminants might move within a ground water system. The "contaminants" can be introduced at the surface or injected at three points within the aquifer.

Uses of the Model
The model can be used in many different settings. It is especially effective with youth in school classrooms, for children's festivals, and with Boy and Girl Scout and 4-H groups. The model has been especially useful in the Nebraska 4-H School Enrichment Project "Water Riches" for older elementary youth. The model can also attract significant attention when used in conjunction with water educational displays. It is useful in presenting basic ground water information to adult audiences in various types of meeting and workshop formats. Because of the model's size, it must be used with relatively small groups.

The models are constructed by the Biological Systems Engineering Research Development Shop at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, adapted from an original design by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. It takes 3 to 4 weeks from the time the order is received for the model to be built. The model is 24 inches long, 12 inches tall, and approximately 2 inches wide. The weight of the model with case is about 40 pounds.

In Nebraska, many Extension County Offices and Natural Resource Districts (NRD) have purchased the models. Extension and NRD staff are often available to provide demonstrations using the model. In some cases, the models may be available for loan. Contact your local Extension or NRD office to determine the availability of a model in your area.

Models built to reflect specific site geologic conditions can be constructed on special request and at additional cost. See the order form for prices.

For special models, unique designs, or bid orders, please contact Wayne Woldt, (402) 472-8656, for more information. For repairs or order status, please contact Scott Minchow, (402) 472-3916, for more information.

To order a model, or parts and repairs, open and print one of the forms listed. Please send or FAX (402-472-6338) the order to us. The free Acrobat Reader is required.