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The interaction between surface water and ground water bodies traditionally has been idealized as a simple unidirectional transport process. More recent detailed examination has shown that flow systems can be complicated. Complicated flow and mixing patterns can have significant implications for physical, biogeochemical, and biological processes within the system and for contaminant transport. Ultimately, the effects of these complex processes on the risk to human health and the environment must be assessed.

This panel examined the technical complexities of surface water and ground water interaction on a spatial and temporal scale. The regulatory framework of mixing zones was reviewed, and the policy implications of mixing zones on ground water and surface water interaction were discussed. The panel focused on mathematical modeling of these processes and reviewed the state-of-the-art technology in aqueous mixing simulation models. Advantages and disadvantages of different modeling approaches, time and spatial resolution disparities, and aggregation–disaggregation of data were also discussed.