Options toward Development of an Integrated Surface-Groundwater Model for the Great Lakes Basin

Session: 23. - The IJC's Science Advisory Board Review of Current Priorities and Projects

Sandra Eberts, U.S. Geological Survey, [email protected]
Yves Michaud, Geological Survey of Canada, [email protected]

Abstract

The influence of groundwater on the water balance and water quality of the Great Lakes basin has not been fully assessed and understood.  With the demand for water from a growing population, urbanization, agriculture, and industry, there is an urgent need to have a greater understanding of surface water, groundwater, and their interactions at the basin scale. Tools for forecasting water budgets also are needed to maintain water security for the multiple users and for ecosystem health.  A study is underway by the International Joint Commission’s (IJC) Science Advisory Board to synthesize current knowledge of existing initiatives and approaches for integrated surface-groundwater modeling in the Great Lakes basin.  The study aims to propose a plan for developing such a modeling platform and for preparing the necessary supporting data through literature review, expert survey, and a regional workshop.  Results of this study will enable the IJC to facilitate efforts by the United States and Canada to fulfill one of the identified science gaps relevant to the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement Groundwater Annex.  This presentation reports on the rationales of the study, progress to date, and interim findings.

1. Keyword
Great Lakes basin

2. Keyword
hydrologic budget

3. Keyword
modeling

4. Additional Keyword
groundwater