3D model visualises underground water supplies (12/5/2007)

A 3D computer model being developed by Queensland University of Technology has the potential to map all the subsurface water supplies within South East Queensland.

Utilising visual 3D technology, QUT scientists are creating a regional hydrogeological model that will make it possible to drill "virtual" bore holes and determine the complexities of underground water systems and the geology of aquifers.

Associate Professor Malcolm Cox, from QUT's Institute of Sustainable Resources, said groundwater was not only an important resource for water supply but also a vital component of wider, interlinked ecosystems.

"Factors such as rapid population growth and drought are producing significant impacts on groundwater resources, however, in most areas these natural systems and surface links are not well understood," Professor Cox said.

"The objective of this project is to develop a tool that makes it possible to catalogue where and how groundwater occurs and assess any changes over time.

"The concept is to use real data to produce a computer generated block of ground and incorporate information about its water-bearing properties."

Professor Cox said the model would include groundwater levels, flow directions, water quality and bore locations and depths.

The area covered by the model will stretch from the NSW border in the south to Noosa in the north, Toowoomba in the west and the bay islands in the east.

"This is one of the faster growing regions in Australia and one within which water resources are becoming inadequate and groundwater is increasingly being utilised," he said.

"Within this setting many of the groundwater systems are being impacted and some are now coming under stress, especially with continuing drought conditions."

Professor Cox said with this in mind, it was essential to properly manage groundwater systems, thereby ensuring their integrity.

"Currently no structured management system exists to provide an integrated approach to the region," he said.

Joint researcher on the project, Dr Joseph Young of the QUT High Performance Computer group, said the project would provide scientists and managers with a regional 3D hydrogeological model that could be used for the strategic management of groundwater resources.

Development of the model, known as HYDROSEQ, is a collaborative venture involving QUT, the Queensland Cyber Infrastructure Foundation, Natural Resources and Water, Geological Survey of Queensland, CSIRO and local councils.

Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by the Queensland University of Technology

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