A three-dimensional model and its potential application to spring protection

Withdrawal of groundwater can dry up springs. It is, however, often difficult to determine the exact causes for the depletion of spring flow by the traditional methods. A 3-D geological model is presented in this paper to explore the groundwater flow conditions in the aquifers that feed springs. Because of the various geological data in spring areas, a date integration technique is adopted to ensure the accuracy of the model. This model is implemented in the spring protection program in Jinan City, China, and the reasons for the drying up of the springs in the city are studied. The proposed model would be particularly helpful in the spring protection, and the appropriate application of the model would result in economic and social benefits of the city.