A SIMPLE TOOL TO PREDICT IMPACT TO GROUND WATER FROM PRODUCED WATER SPILLS

Randall T. Hicks*
David Hamilton
R.T. Hicks Consultants, Ltd.
901 Rio Grande NW, Suite F-142
Albuquerque, NM 87104
Voice: 505-266-5004
Fax: 505-266-0745
E-mail: R@rthicksconsult.com

Jirka Simunek
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, California

Jason Libersky
Zia Consortium
Albuquerque, NM

We used the unsaturated flow model HYDRUS-1D and a simple ground water mixing model to predict the effect of surface produced water spills on ground water quality for various scenarios in the Permian Basin of west Texas and southeast New Mexico. We then installed the results of about 50 HYDRUS-1D simulations and the ground water mixing equation into a program. The user enters data regarding the environmental setting of the site and the produced water spill. The program then calculates the chloride concentration in an imaginary well located adjacent to the release site. The HYDRUS-1D simulations also provide data on the expected time when natural processes will reduce the salinity of the soil horizon and permit re-vegetation of the site. This tool, which is available from the American Petroleum Institute, can assist operators, regulators and land owners make decisions regarding the need for site characterization and remediation.