An Electric Analog Model Study of Ground Water in Box Butte County, Nebraska

An electric analog model was constructed to simulate ground water conditions in Box Butte County, Nebraska. The electric analog is a resistance-capacitance network which simulates the water movement-storage characteristics of ground water aquifers. The Alliance-Hemingford area of Box Butte County, about 400 square miles was selected for this study. This area has been experiencing a steady decline of the ground water level and estimates of future water levels were desired. Predevelopment conditions were simulated and estimated withdrawals, based on irrigation well development and precipitation, were applied to the model representing historic development. After the model had verified historic conditions, varying future development conditions were imposed and the results of this development on the water level were obtained. The results of the projections indicated the water level will continue to decline in most areas varying with the amount and location of future estimated irrigation development. Water level declines for the period 1970-85 were estimated to vary from 10 to 35 feet depending on the condition assumed. Although several assumptions had to be made because of data and equipment limitations, the results in general establish a trend and provide potential water level information for future planning and management of the ground water resource. Advisor: Donald M. Edward