2023 STEP Webinar: Advantages of Using Integrated...

Abstract: To predict surface water runoff volumes and timing, engineers commonly apply event-based precipitation/runoff models that represent hydrological processes through lumped parameters and typically simplify groundwater flow conditions. Integrated models, however, use detailed representation of surface and sub-surface processes and allow for physically based feedback, such as rejection of infiltration once soils reach saturation. In recent years, increased attention has been placed on incorporating LID concepts into land development while efforts to conserve groundwater-dependent ecosystem expect groundwater discharge conditions to be maintained at predevelopment levels. Examples will illustrate how integrated modelling can be used at different scales and stages in the planning process to help stakeholders make well-informed decisions. At watershed scale, models can establish capture volumes required to reduce runoff volumes and maintain groundwater function. At subwatershed scale, feature-based analyses can provide insights on the surface water/groundwater interaction in recharge areas, wetlands, and streams. Finally, at catchment scale, LIDs can explicitly be represented in the model and tested for their efficacy given the surrounding hydrogeology and groundwater conditions. Feedback between the surface water and groundwater system can identify unexpected conditions such as rejection of infiltration or elevated groundwater levels around centralized infiltration structures.

Chris Gabriel is a Senior Environmental Consultant with over 17 years of experience in the development and application of hydrological and groundwater models. For the last 10 years, Chris’ work has been focusing on the application of integrated groundwater/surface water models for land development and conservation projects and included LID application assessments and model-based wetland analysis amongst others.

Daron Abbey is a principal hydrogeologist with over 25 years of experience in hydrogeological system characterization, groundwater flow and contaminant transport modelling, and groundwater management. As practice lead, Daron supports a wide range of groundwater and integrated modelling projects with his multi-disciplinary approach to data analysis, conceptualization, model development, and risk-based solutions to groundwater problems.

Contact: sara.finnimore@trca.ca

Webpage: https://sustainabletechnologies.ca/professional-development-training/2023-webinar-series/