• The Journal of Engineering Geology
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• v.19 no.2
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• pp.131-138
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• 2009

A simulation-optimization model is developed for development of groundwater and control of a saltwater wedge for protecting over-exploiting freshwater pumping wells. To achieve the goal an objective function is developed for three types of wells: freshwater pumping, freshwater injection and saltwater pumping. Integrity of groundwater environment is accounted for by including three indices. Illustrative cross-sectional examples show that both types of barriers can protect freshwater pumping wells from saltwater intrusion. A barrier well operating at the same rate located anywhere within a certain reach can protect a pumping well. However, the location of the reach appears to contradict the common practice of barrier placements. Consideration of the groundwater environment yields a unique optimal location for barrier wells.