June 23-26, 2009

If you want to learn to use numerical models ...
If you want to better understand the numerical model results that are presented to you...
If you want to learn how to use MODFLOW 2000/2005 ...

Click here to register.

that introduces ground-water professionals to numerical modeling. Basic modeling concepts: conceptual model development, definition of boundary and initial conditions, parameter specification, finite-differencing, gridding, time stepping, and solution control using MODFLOW-2000/2005 and UCODE. Basic modules of MODFLOW are explained and concepts are reinforced with hands-on exercises. Calibration is presented via the public domain universal inversion code, UCODE_2005.

Course sessions are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

The course begins with discussion of the phases of a modeling project, followed by presentation of concepts related to:

· conceptual model development,
· definition of boundary and initial conditions,
· parameter specification,
· finite-differencing,
· gridding,
· time stepping, and
· solution control.

Soon thereafter, hands-on sessions begin with a simple problem using text-based interfaces. Gradually, subsequent exercises utilize more MODFLOW packages, develop a more complex model, and evaluate transient situations.

The exercises continue with a discussion of, introduction to, and use of graphical user interfaces. The course emphasizes use of text files. If you have the ability to look in, and understand the content of these files or control these commands, you will be a valuable modeler. Inevitably, in your project work, something does not work correctly in a GUI and you need to track down and resolve the problem. Or, you want to do something unique with your project that the GUI developer hadn't planned on. If you do not understand the file structure and commands, you cannot move forward, and your project is in jeopardy. This is why the course emphasizes the use of text files, but uses GUIs to facilitate visualization.

The course continues with a brief review of calibration concepts, followed by an introduction to inversion theory and description of the input, output and special topics associated with using MODFLOW2000 for calibration. This is followed by hands-on exercises demonstrating model calibration including:

· checking problem set-up;
· estimating parameters; and
· evaluating statistics for:


a) identifying inadequate data and parameters that probably cannot be estimated
b) evaluating estimated parameter values,
c) evaluating the accuracy of the model's representation of the active processes, and
d) quantifying the uncertainty associated with predictions made using the estimated parameters


· use of the peripheral output files of MOFLOW2000/2005 and UCODE_2005, to

a) determine the validity of your model,
b) guide further work, and
c) present the certainty of your results.

Once the model is calibrated, we proceed to use it to make predictions. The course explains procedures for running MODFLOW in the predictive mode and using the associated code YCINT to evaluate the certainty of the predictions given the calibrated model.

Brief lectures between exercises discuss results of the previous exercise, potential pitfalls, and set the stage for the subsequent exercise.

Every project is unique. Modeling cannot be accomplished by following a recipe. Rather it requires fundamental understanding of modeling concepts applied to each specific situation. Approaches to resolving such model-specific problems are discussed. Attendees who are already working on a modeling project are encouraged to bring questions.

This course is designed for the hydrogeologist and environmental engineer familiar with ground-water flow concepts, but who have limited or no experience with ground-water flow modeling.

COURSE MATERIALS

Attendees will receive course notes; the MODFLOW-2000/2005 and UCODE_2005 software as well as their basic manuals.

INSTRUCTOR

Dr. Eileen Poeter is Director of the IGWMC and a Professor Emeritus at Colorado School of Mines. She has been modeling in the academic and geohydrologic-consulting arena for 32 years. She has been teaching modeling, both as semester and short courses, for 25 years. Dr. Poeter authored over 100 articles and reports in the area of ground water with specialization in ground-water modeling, evaluation, and simulation of heterogeneity, use of soft data such as geophysical data, and using inverse modeling as a tool to improve such endeavors.

ENROLLMENT & REGISTRATION

The fee for the short course is $1495 before June 8, 2009 and thereafter $1695. Enrollment for the course requires a deposit of $100. You will be invoiced for the tuition balance. The fee covers instruction, course notes, refreshments, and certificate of participation. Lodging and meals are not covered. Payment in full must be received prior to the beginning of the course. The registration fee may be paid by check, VISA, MasterCard, AMEX or purchase order. A maximum of 20 applicants will be able to attend the course due to space limitations.

If cancellation is made before June 8, 2009, tuition will be refunded except for the $100 deposit. Cancellations made after that date will forfeit a $150 processing fee in addition to the $100 deposit. In case of cancellation, the right to course material is forfeited. Substitutions are permitted at any time prior to the start of the course. Please be advised that if the program is cancelled due to insufficient enrollment, Colorado School of Mines will return all course fees, but will not be liable for any other expenses incurred by the prospective attendees.

Click here to register. This will redirect you to the secure site.

COURSE LOCATION

The course will be held at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado. A city and campus map will be sent to you upon course enrollment.

TRANSPORTATION AND LODGING

The Colorado School of Mines is located in Golden, which is 20 minutes west of Denver, 1 hour west of the Denver International Airport and can be reached by taxi, airport shuttle or rental car. Lodging is available in Golden, within walking distance of the campus. Information regarding transportation, parking, and lodging will be sent upon registration.

To register, contact:
International Groundwater Modeling Center
phone: +1 303 273-3103
fax: +1 303 384-2037
email: igwmc@mines.edu

IGWMC MAIN PAGE

Last Update: April 9, 2009