Modeling unsaturated zone flow and runoff processes by integrating MODFLOW-LGR and VSF, and creating the new CFL package

SummaryIn this paper two modifications to the MODFLOW code are presented. One concerns an extension of Local Grid Refinement (LGR) to Variable Saturated Flow process (VSF) capability. This modification allows the user to solve the 3D Richards’ equation only in selected parts of the model domain. The second modification introduces a new package, named CFL (Cascading Flow), which improves the computation of overland flow when ground surface saturation is simulated using either VSF or the Unsaturated Zone Flow (UZF) package. The modeling concepts are presented and demonstrated. Programmer documentation is included in appendices.

► MODFLOW-LGR were modified to improve vadose zone and runoff investigation. ► We updated the Variable Saturated Flow (VSF) package, to be used with LGR. ► The new VSF version allows to solve the full Richards’ eq. only in selected areas. ► The new package Cascading Flow (CFL) was included to improve overland flow study. ► Test cases are presented to demonstrate the codes functionality.