Vadose Zone Flow and Transport Parameters Data Package for the Hanford Site Composite Analysis and Cumulative Impact Evaluation

Abstract

This report provides a description of the basis for the development and implementation of a conceptual model for vadose zone flow and transport for the composite analysis (CA) groundwater pathway analysis and the cumulative impact evaluation (CIE). The parameterization for a numerical model is intimately linked to the conceptual model framework. The report describes the basis for the selection of hydraulic and transport parameters for the hydrostratigraphic units (HSUs) identified in the 200 East and 200 West Areas. Whenever data are sparse or unavailable, surrogate hydraulic properties are chosen based on samples collected within the 200 Areas and nearby locations that are representative of sediments characteristic of the HSUs identified elsewhere.