Purpose: | 3-D ground water modeling |
Developer: | United States Geological Survey (USGS) |
Key Features: | Modular structure; Open-source; A set of software utilities for model calibration, pre- and post- processing, and GUI; 1-, 2- and 3-D calculations |
Latest Release: | Version 1.11.00, August 2013 |
OS Platform: | Windows, UNIX |
Cost: | Free |
Related Software: | FEFLOW, Visual MODFLOW, Aquaveo GMS, PMWIN |
Website: | MODFLOW information |
The MODFLOW model simulates groundwater flows in aquifers. The model partitions aquifer systems into grids of cells, and models hydrologic and hydraulic processes for each grid cell, as well as interactions between different grid cells. Certain processes, such as the recharge process, are modeled as interactions between the aquifer system layers and water bodies such as reservoirs and lakes. Using Darcy’s Law equation, MODFLOW calculates the water budget for each grid cell, yielding simulated flows that are in either steady or transient state. MODFLOW has been used to simulate and predict ground water conditions and coupled groundwater/surface water interactions. Additional modules have incorporated solute transport, variable-density flow (including salt water), aquifer-system compaction and land subsidence, and groundwater management. The tool performs 1D, 2D and 3D calculations.
MODFLOW lacks a Graphical User Interface (GUI), but has a set of software utilities for model calibration and sensitivity analysis, pre- and post-processing of data and GUI. The software’s modular structure allows the user to customize a set of modules, usable for various applications, including integration with other software tools.
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Africa | East Asia and the Pacific | Europe & Central Asia | Latin America & the Caribbean | Middle East and North Africa | South Asia |
Regional groundwater modeling, Benin | Environmental assessment study, Brazil | Environmental assessment study, Gaza | Groundwater flow modeling in the Bengal basin, Bangladesh |
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