Groundwater Flow Modelling of a Multilayer Aquifer in Semi-arid Context

Abstract

The Takelsa multilayer aquifer system, located in north-eastern Tunisia, contains important groundwater resources that have mainly been used for agricultural purposes. To ensure a solid base for the sustainable management of this aquifer system, an adequate comprehensive hydrogeologic investigation was undertaken. A sampling campaign of stable isotopes was carried out in 2016 to identify groundwater recharge and related processes. A groundwater flow model was implemented. The model calibration was performed during a steady state, based on the average state of the period 1980–1984, using Modflow. Modelling results have been determined by a least squares fit of observed heads. The groundwater model was coupled with a physically based model (WetSpass model) used to quantify groundwater recharge and discharge of the Takelsa multilayer aquifer.