Applying MODFLOW Model for Drainage Problem Solution: A Case Study from Jahir Irrigated Fields, Israel

Abstract

High water table and soil salinization processes are common in irrigated fields in Israel. Subsurface drainage systems are a common technique to solve soil salinity problems. Subsurface drainage models can contribute to the efficiency of the drainage system as it can assist in the selection of the proper drainage system and its proper placement in the field. In this study we used the MODFLOW groundwater flow model to simulate groundwater levels in Jahir irrigated fields, the Jordan Valley, Israel. Using a three-layer groundwater flow model, the most efficient drainage system was found to be a combination of deep drains with relief wells and a pump placed in the area with soil salinity problem and upward hydraulic pressure. It was found that simulated drainage system can yield nearly 200,000m3 of water per year. Given certain information, a spatially distributed groundwater flow model such as MODFLOW can provide more reliable information than different analytical solutions for planning of an effective subsurface drainage system.