A very short review of ModelMuse

ModelMuse is a free graphical-user interface for MODFLOW and the PHAST model, published by the USGS.  In this post, I will be discussing Model Muse’s MODFLOW capabilities.

As seen in my screen shot below, the software provides a simple, basic interface to MODFLOW input files.   I find it reminiscent of versions of Visual MODFLOW from about a decade ago.

ModelMuse is functional rather than flashy, but simplicity can be a virtue.  It may be easier to learn MODFLOW on Model Muse than on a super-powerful commercial software with an overwhelming number of features.

The platform lacks GIS integration but does allow the user to assign values to cells with shape objects: polygons, lines and points.  Cell values can also be assigned using formulas.  The software supports surface interpolation using various methods: nearest neighbor, inverse distance squared, triangle interpolation, and fitted surface.

It will internally run transient and steady-state type MODFLOW models, and supports common packages, including CHD, CHOB, DRN, DROB, DRT, ETS, EVT, GHB, GBOB, HFB, HOB, LAK, RCH, RES, RIV, RVOB, SRF, UZF, and WEL.

After a model has been run, ModelMuse will display the final heads, drawdowns, and fluxes.  Based on the users guide, I could not figure out if a visual presentation of particle tracking is available, although MODPATH is integrated.

Bottom Line: students, novices, and those with serious budget constraints will benefit from the availability of this software.  Sophisticated users probably require GIS integration at this point and will need to buy a commercial software.