Preparation and data determination for the development of the hydrogeological structural model for the “Groundwater Model – Lusatia” (GWM-L) – Brandenburg part

Over the past 150 years, the Lusatia region has transformed into a landscape heavily influenced by lignite mining. The newly proposed regional " Groundwater Model - Lusatia " (GWM-L) is initiated to become a pivotal tool for cross-border groundwater management in Saxony and Brandenburg, addressing complex post-mining water management issues.

The primary objective is to establish a robust hydrogeological structural model that accurately delineates aquifer stratigraphy and lithology. This foundational model will subsequently support the integration of soil water balance models with groundwater flow models under changing climatic conditions.

Developing GWM-L entails significant challenges, including uncertainties in geological structures and material parameters, integrating extensive existing data, and balancing computational efficiency with model realism. Despite established methodologies, the model's complexity demands a meticulous, stepwise approach using advanced modeling techniques. Various local hydrogeological models from mining operators at different sites will be correlated to maximize data utility and accuracy.

The structural model must accurately depict geological conditions down to 350 meters. The LBGR sets the target for Brandenburg at the reference horizon (base of the Rupel Formation layers). This contribution will delineate the fundamental processes of geological data acquisition, highlight inherent data heterogeneity, and present advanced methodologies employed to construct a comprehensive digital, three-dimensional hydrogeological structural model. The resulting model will enhance our understanding of the Lusatia region’s hydrogeology and provide a critical foundation for sustainable groundwater management amid ongoing environmental and anthropogenic changes.