Evaluating the quality of hydraulic conductivity estimates from piezometer slug tests in peat

摘要: Although widely used in wetland hydrological studies, hydraulic conductivity (K) estimates from piezometer slug tests are often of questionable validity. Frequently, this is because insufficient attention paid to the details test procedure. Further, a potentially heterogeneous and anisotropic medium such as peat, use prone error. In paper we address some methodological issues surrounding peat. We compare data with laboratory determinations vertical horizontal K obtained using new method. Piezometers were installed at three depths floodplain fen peat Norfolk, UK. Slug initiated by both insertion withdrawal, repeat conducted examine robustness our estimates. Most displayed departures log-linear model Hvorslev, form departure being consistent compressible soil behaviour. The results suggest that gave similar those withdrawal. Repeat testing showed withdrawal data, particular, highly reproducible normalized responses independent initial head. Values for estimated range 1 × 10−4 1·6 10−3 cm s−1, which towards upper end reported peats generally. Laboratory yielded values tests. was anisotropic, generated proved relatively good K.