MODELING A GROUNDWATER CIRCULATION WELL
ALTERNATIVE
Andrew Curtis Elmore1
Luca DeAngelis2
Abstract
Groundwater circulation wells (GCWs) provide an appealing alternative to typical pump-and-treat
groundwater remediation systems because of the inherent resource-conservative nature of the GCW
systems. Groundwater circulation well performance prediction is challenging because the consideration of
extraction and recharge in a single well is unusual for most practitioners, the technology is relatively new,
and a meaningful body of literature has not been published. A three-part evaluation process using state of
the practice numerical groundwater flow and mass transport models was developed for application during
GCW pilot studies at the former Nebraska Ordnance Plant site. A small scale groundwater flow model was
developed during the pilot study planning process to predict the system performance and to locate
performance-measuring monitoring wells. Key predictions included the capture zone predicted to develop
up gradient of the GCW, the down gradient GCW recharge zone, and the circulation zone centered on the
GCW. The flow model was subsequently verified using groundwater elevation data and contaminant
concentration data collected during pilot study operation. Aquifer parameters were re-estimated as a result
of the verification process. Those parameter values were used as input to a larger scale model which was
used to develop a remedial alternative consisting of multiple GCW systems.
1
University of Missouri-Rolla, Dept of Geological Engineering, 129 McNutt Hall, 1870 Miner Circle,
Rolla, MO 65409-0420
2
URS Group, Inc., 10975 El Monte, Suite 100, Overland Park, KS 66211