Introduction

Transpiration results in water being extracted from the ground by root mass, which in-turn alters the pore-water pressures and therefore the groundwater flow regime. Root water uptake involves a complex interaction between atmospheric climate conditions, vegetation, and the ground surface. The root water uptake boundary condition in SEEP/W calculates the water extraction rates in accordance with potential evapotranspiration, which is climate dependent, the condition of the vegetation, and the availability.

This example explores the implementation and definition of the root water uptake boundary condition. Calculations are done to verify the simulated results and a commentary is provided on the role of mesh density.