Hele-Shaw Model of Long Island Aquifer System

An experimental study, using a vertical Hele-Shaw model, is undertaken to determine fresh and salt ground-water flow for various ground-water development schemes on Long Island, N.Y. To satisfy dynamic similitude, some portions of the model are anisotropic. To simulate stream base flow, a significant hydrologic feature along the south shore of the island, an internal weir is incorporated in the model. Liquid silicones simulate fresh and salt water. Verification of the model is achieved by reproduction of long-term water table profiles, the stream base flow, and the double salt-water wedge structure, i.e., two salt-water wedges separated vertically by fresh water, south of the island. Response of the salt water to hydrologic transients on the island is slow. Recharge is effective in arresting or reversing salt-water movement.