Finite Hydraulic Conductivity Effects on Optimal Groundwater Pumping Rates

The effect of a finite hydraulic conductivity on the optimal pumping rate from a closed aquifer is examined. A methodology is presented which determines the optimal pumping rate of a dynamic groundwater model with complex state and control functions. It is shown that the optimal pumping rate can be substantially lower when the hydraulic conductivity is small enough to result in a significant cone of depression.