Systems Analysis And Modeling Techniques Applied To Water Management

This paper gives an overview of systems analysis and modeling applied to water resource management. With increased concern for economic efficiency in water resource usage, the need to exploit the complementary nature of various modes of usages has become more important. Systems analysis is particularly helpful in this regard because assessment of the relative allocation of costs and benefits of two more potential uses requires a systems framework. The process of systems analysis for comprehensive water planning is discussed outlining recognition of the problems, definition of a model, questions of data collection and finally implementation of a practical program of action. The methodology and advantages of water resources systems analysis are discussed relative to three main areas of concern ‐ hydrologic uncertainty, objectives of governments and sponsoring agencies, and overlapping institutional and political boundaries.