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21 pages, 5276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Managing Aquifer Recharge to Overcome Overdraft in the Lower American River, California, USA

by Mahesh L. Maskey, Mustafa S. Dogan, Angel Santiago Fernandez-Bou, Liying Li, Alexander Guzman, Wyatt Arnold, Erfan Goharian, Jay R. Lund and Josue Medellin-Azuara

Water 2022, 14(6), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/w14060966 - 18 Mar 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2850

Abstract

Frequent and prolonged droughts challenge groundwater sustainability in California but managing aquifer recharge can help to partially offset groundwater overdraft. Here, we use managed aquifer recharge (MAR) to examine potential benefits of adding an artificial recharge facility downstream from California’s Lower American River [...] Read more.

Frequent and prolonged droughts challenge groundwater sustainability in California but managing aquifer recharge can help to partially offset groundwater overdraft. Here, we use managed aquifer recharge (MAR) to examine potential benefits of adding an artificial recharge facility downstream from California’s Lower American River Basin, in part to prepare for drought. We use a statewide hydroeconomic model, CALVIN, which integrates hydrology, the economics of water scarcity cost and operations, environmental flow requirements, and other operational constraints, and allocates water monthly to minimize total scarcity and operating costs. This study considers a recharge facility with unconstrained and constrained flows. The results show that adding a recharge facility increases groundwater storage, reduces groundwater overdraft, and increases hydropower without substantially impacting environmental flows. Further, artificial recharge adds economic benefits by (1) reducing the combined costs of water shortage and surface water storage and (2) by increasing hydropower revenue. This study provides a benchmark tool to evaluate the economic feasibility and water supply reliability impacts of artificial recharge in California. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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21 pages, 4734 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Assessment of Water Quality Regulation Functions in Southwestern Europe Watersheds

by Roxelane Cakir, Mélanie Raimonet, Sabine Sauvage, Romain Walcker, Magali Gerino and José Miguel Sánchez-Pérez

Water 2021, 13(21), 2980; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13212980 - 22 Oct 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1751

Abstract

Estimation at large scale of the water quality regulation services is still lacking. It is essential to develop methodological approaches to quantify nutrient-related functions’ distribution. The present study aims to quantify nitrate-related ecological functions through nitrate net balance (NNB), nitrate removal (NR), and [...] Read more.

Estimation at large scale of the water quality regulation services is still lacking. It is essential to develop methodological approaches to quantify nutrient-related functions’ distribution. The present study aims to quantify nitrate-related ecological functions through nitrate net balance (NNB), nitrate removal (NR), and nitrate production (NP). This study explores the spatiotemporal dynamics of these indicators in South-Western Europe (SUDOE, 216 subsystems over 81 basins) at a monthly scale from 2000 to 2010. We use the Soil and Water Assessment Tool model to simulate nutrient transfer at the subsystem scale (~3000 km²) and calculate ecological functions. The modeled NNB is validated at the subsystem scale by comparing with NNB predicted at the water body scale (~60 km²) over the Garonne watershed (France). Hot spots of NR are located in the south of SUDOE, characterized by a warmer and dryer climate, whereas NP hot spots are located in the most anthropized streams. The mean NNB (the balance between NP and NR) at the subsystem scale for the SUDOE territory reaches −3.5 and −2.8 gN m⁻² day⁻¹ during the most active seasons. The results highlight drivers influencing NR such as streamflow, river slope, and hydrological alteration. Getting an overview of where and when these nitrate regulation functions (NP and NR) occur is essential for socio-ecosystem sustainability and this study highlights its sensitivity to anthropogenic stressors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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24 pages, 5615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applying Optimization to Support Adaptive Water Management of Rivers

by Diana Derepasko, Francisco J. Peñas, José Barquín and Martin Volk

Water 2021, 13(9), 1281; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13091281 - 30 Apr 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3005

Abstract

Adaptive water management is a promising management paradigm for rivers that addresses the uncertainty of decision consequences. However, its implementation into current practice is still a challenge. An optimization assessment can be framed within the adaptive management cycle allowing the definition of environmental [...] Read more.

Adaptive water management is a promising management paradigm for rivers that addresses the uncertainty of decision consequences. However, its implementation into current practice is still a challenge. An optimization assessment can be framed within the adaptive management cycle allowing the definition of environmental flows (e-flows) in a suitable format for decision making. In this study, we demonstrate its suitability to mediate the incorporation of e-flows into diversion management planning, fostering the realization of an adaptive management approach. We used the case study of the Pas River, Northern Spain, as the setting for the optimization of surface water diversion. We considered e-flow requirements for three key river biological groups to reflect conditions that promote ecological conservation. By drawing from hydrological scenarios (i.e., dry, normal, and wet), our assessment showed that the overall target water demand can be met, whereas the daily volume of water available for diversion was not constant throughout the year. These results suggest that current the decision making needs to consider the seasonal time frame as the reference temporal scale for objectives adjustment and monitoring. The approach can be transferred to other study areas and can inform decision makers that aim to engage with all the stages of the adaptive water management cycle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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21 pages, 8151 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integrated Technology for Evaluation and Assessment of Multi-Scale Hydrological Systems in Managing Nonpoint Source Pollution

by Henrique Momm, Ron Bingner, Robert Wells, Katy Moore and Glenn Herring

Water 2021, 13(6), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/w13060842 - 19 Mar 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2137

Abstract

Conservation agencies need information to guide planning activities and allocation of limited mitigation resources at regional scales. Utilization of hydrological modeling tools at sub-watershed scales can adequately represent existing conditions, but information on a few discrete uncoordinated efforts cannot be scaled up to [...] Read more.

Conservation agencies need information to guide planning activities and allocation of limited mitigation resources at regional scales. Utilization of hydrological modeling tools at sub-watershed scales can adequately represent existing conditions, but information on a few discrete uncoordinated efforts cannot be scaled up to the entire region. Conversely, large scale modeling studies suffer from overgeneralization caused by needed lumping of information. In this study, a multiscale and standardized procedure was sought to characterize water and nonpoint source pollution spatiotemporal dynamics at basin-scale but through detailed field-scale analysis. The AnnAGNPS watershed pollution model was enhanced with new capabilities for simulation of large areas based on an Integrated Technology for Evaluation and Assessment of Multi-scale-hydrological Systems (ITEAMS) approach. Comparisons between the standard and proposed ITEAMS approach indicated no difference in streamflow and small underestimation of suspended sediments during high intensity rainfall events. The ITEAMS approach was applied to a basin with a total area of 3,268,691 ha which was discretized into 469,628 sub-catchments with an average size of 6.8 ha. The resulting 366 linked AnnAGNPS simulations were executed hierarchically generating estimates of water and suspended sediment yield and loads. This pilot study revealed the ITEAMS approach is a viable alternative for modeling and simulating large areas but at high spatiotemporal resolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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28 pages, 12122 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Using Analytical Hierarchy Process and Multi-Influencing Factors to Map Groundwater Recharge Zones in a Semi-Arid Mediterranean Coastal Aquifer

by Adel Zghibi, Ali Mirchi, Mohamed Haythem Msaddek, Amira Merzougui, Lahcen Zouhri, Jean-Denis Taupin, Anis Chekirbane, Ismail Chenini and Jamila Tarhouni

Water 2020, 12(9), 2525; https://doi.org/10.3390/w12092525 - 10 Sep 2020

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 5506

Abstract

Mapping groundwater recharge zones (GWRZs) is essential for planning artificial recharge programs to mitigate groundwater decline and saltwater intrusion into coastal aquifers. We applied two multi-criteria decision-making approaches, namely the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and the multi-influencing factors (MIF), to map GWRZs in [...] Read more.

Mapping groundwater recharge zones (GWRZs) is essential for planning artificial recharge programs to mitigate groundwater decline and saltwater intrusion into coastal aquifers. We applied two multi-criteria decision-making approaches, namely the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and the multi-influencing factors (MIF), to map GWRZs in the Korba aquifer in northeastern Tunisia. GWRZ results from the AHP indicate that the majority (69%) of the area can be classified as very good and good for groundwater recharge. The MIF results suggest larger (80.7%) very good and good GWRZs. The GWRZ maps improve groundwater balance calculations by providing estimates of recharge-precipitation ratios to quantify percolation. Lithology, land use/cover and slope were the most sensitive parameters followed by geomorphology, lineament density, rainfall, drainage density and soil type. The AHP approach produced relatively more accurate results than the MIF technique based on correlation of the obtained GWRZs with groundwater well discharge data from 20 wells across the study area. The accuracy of the approaches ultimately depends on the classification criteria, mean rating score and weights assigned to the thematic layers. Nonetheless, the GWRZ maps suggest that there is ample opportunity to implement aquifer recharge programs to reduce groundwater stress in the Korba aquifer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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18 pages, 5447 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Sea Level Rise Effect on Groundwater Rise and Stormwater Retention Pond Reliability

by Rahman Davtalab, Ali Mirchi, Rebecca J. Harris, Mark X. Troilo and Kaveh Madani

Water 2020, 12(4), 1129; https://doi.org/10.3390/w12041129 - 15 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5356

Abstract

The coastal areas of Florida, United States, are exposed to increasing risk of flooding due to sea level rise as well as severe hurricanes. Florida regulations suggest constructing stormwater retention ponds as an option to retain excess runoff generated by the increased impervious [...] Read more.

The coastal areas of Florida, United States, are exposed to increasing risk of flooding due to sea level rise as well as severe hurricanes. Florida regulations suggest constructing stormwater retention ponds as an option to retain excess runoff generated by the increased impervious area and to protect the environment by reducing pollutants from new developments. Groundwater level rise can significantly lower the soil storage capacity and infiltration at retention ponds, in turn, reducing the pond’s capacity to capture consecutive storms due to longer pond volume recovery time. Partial groundwater inundation can affect retention ponds’ ability to decrease peak flow rates and keep the post-development outflow lower than or equal to pre-development conditions. In this paper, the reliability and performance of a retention pond near Tampa Bay, Florida, was evaluated under sea level rise conditions. An integrated surface water and groundwater model was developed, and the groundwater table was projected for future conditions as a function of sea level rise. The results showed that sea level rise could increase the seasonal high water elevation of the retention pond up to 40 cm by mid-21st century. This increase lowered the reliability of the retention pond by about 45%. The pond failed to recover the designed treatment volume within required 72 h because of the high groundwater table, increasing the risk of pollutant discharge. Furthermore, the peak flow and volume of runoff significantly increased under sea level rise and associated groundwater table rise conditions. The study results suggest that it is imperative to consider future sea level rise conditions in stormwater design in low-lying coastal areas of Florida and around the world to prevent poor pond performance and increased risk of flooding in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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15 pages, 3789 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Competitive Relationship between Flood Control and Power Generation with Flood Season Division: A Case Study in Downstream Jinsha River Cascade Reservoirs

by Hongyi Yao, Zengchuan Dong, Wenhao Jia, Xiaokuan Ni, Mufeng Chen, Cailin Zhu and Dayong Li

Water 2019, 11(11), 2401; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11112401 - 15 Nov 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2937

Abstract

The lower reaches of Jinsha River host the richest hydropower energy sources in China. With the construction of Wudongde and Baihetan, the multi-objective optimization for cascade reservoirs (along with Xiluodu and Xiangjia Dam) in the lower reaches of Jinsha River will create significant [...] Read more.

The lower reaches of Jinsha River host the richest hydropower energy sources in China. With the construction of Wudongde and Baihetan, the multi-objective optimization for cascade reservoirs (along with Xiluodu and Xiangjia Dam) in the lower reaches of Jinsha River will create significant benefits. This paper focuses on the competitive relationship between flood control and power generation, and attaches attention to the measurement of different objective functions and their competitive relationship. With observations of the flood in 1974, 1981, and 1985, a 100-year return period flood with peak-3d volume pair as different inputs for the optimal model is approached by NSGA-II. Different flood seasons divided by flood feature is applied to figure out specific competitive relationship. The results can be concluded as the following: (1) Strong competitive relationship mainly occurs in pre-flood season. (2) Whether it shows a strong competitive relationship depends on the amount of discharge. If the turbine is set to full capacity, power generation is fulfilled certainly, which means that there exists a weak competitive relationship between multi-objectives. (3) The different processes of floods have an effect on the duration of a competitive relationship. A flood with a late peak causes the extension of strong competition in the pre-flood season, which lends itself to a strong competition relationship in the post-flood season. (4) The intensity of competition in the pre-flood season is higher than that in the post-flood season because it has a larger range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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15 pages, 5731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Groundwater‒Energy‒Food Nexus in Iran’s Agricultural Sector: Implications for Water Security

by Atena Mirzaei, Bahram Saghafian, Ali Mirchi and Kaveh Madani

Water 2019, 11(9), 1835; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11091835 - 04 Sep 2019

Cited by 85 | Viewed by 10803

Abstract

This paper presents the first groundwater‒energy‒food (GEF) nexus study of Iran’s agronomic crops based on national and provincial datasets and firsthand estimates of agricultural groundwater withdrawal. We use agronomic crop production, water withdrawal, and energy consumption data to estimate groundwater withdrawal from electric-powered [...] Read more.

This paper presents the first groundwater‒energy‒food (GEF) nexus study of Iran’s agronomic crops based on national and provincial datasets and firsthand estimates of agricultural groundwater withdrawal. We use agronomic crop production, water withdrawal, and energy consumption data to estimate groundwater withdrawal from electric-powered irrigation wells and examine agronomic productivity in Iran’s 31 provinces through the lens of GEF nexus. The ex-post GEF analysis sheds light on some of the root causes of the nation’s worsening water shortage problems. Access to highly subsidized water (surface water and groundwater) and energy has been the backbone of agricultural expansion policies in Iran, supporting employment in agrarian communities. Consequently, water use for agronomic crop production has greatly overshot the renewable water supply capacity of the country, making water bankruptcy a serious national security threat. Significant groundwater table decline across the country and increasing energy consumption underscore dysfunctional feedback relations between agricultural water and energy price and groundwater withdrawal in an inefficient agronomic sector. Thus, it is essential to implement holistic policy reforms aimed at reducing agricultural water consumption to alleviate the looming water bankruptcy threats, which can lead to the loss of numerous agricultural jobs in the years to come. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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16 pages, 2392 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trade-Offs between Human and Environment: Challenges for Regional Water Management under Changing Conditions

by Elmira Hassanzadeh

Water 2019, 11(9), 1773; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11091773 - 26 Aug 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3808

Abstract

Water resource systems are under unprecedented pressure mainly due to rapid socio-economic growth, weak water and land management decisions, as well as variability and change in climate conditions. These pressures have disrupted the functionality of freshwater ecosystems and have generated water management challenges [...] Read more.

Water resource systems are under unprecedented pressure mainly due to rapid socio-economic growth, weak water and land management decisions, as well as variability and change in climate conditions. These pressures have disrupted the functionality of freshwater ecosystems and have generated water management challenges in various regions across the globe. Here, we showcase the potential trade-offs in the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada, between upstream human activities and downstream environmental needs under changing water availability conditions. We showed that an increase in irrigation areas can boost provincial economy but alter timing, magnitude and rhythmicity of the peak flows reaching downstream ecosystems. This indicates that the business as usual management might not be able to handle such emerging challenges. To improve water management, we argue that there is a need to better represent the dynamic interactions between human water use and water quantity and quality conditions and their influence on ecosystems. In addition, impact assessment frameworks need to be improved to better identify system vulnerabilities under changing natural and anthropogenic conditions. Moreover, due to the key role of stakeholders in adopting land and water management decisions, their viewpoints need to be understood and included in management decisions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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17 pages, 15205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Allocation Model of Water Resources Based on the Prospect Theory

by Huaxiang He, Aiqi Chen, Mingwan Yin, Zhenzhen Ma, Jinjun You, Xinmin Xie, Zhizhang Wang and Qiang An

Water 2019, 11(6), 1289; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11061289 - 20 Jun 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4481

Abstract

The rational allocation of water resources in the basin/region can be better assisted and performed using a suitable water resources allocation model. Rule-based and optimization-based simulation methods are utilized to solve medium- and long-term water resources allocation problems. Since rule-based allocation methods requires [...] Read more.

The rational allocation of water resources in the basin/region can be better assisted and performed using a suitable water resources allocation model. Rule-based and optimization-based simulation methods are utilized to solve medium- and long-term water resources allocation problems. Since rule-based allocation methods requires more experience from expert practice than optimization-based allocation methods, it may not be utilized by users that lack experience. Although the optimal solution can be obtained via the optimization-based allocation method, the highly skilled expert experience is not taken into account. To overcome this deficiency and employ the advantages of both rule-based and optimization-based simulation methods, this paper proposes the optimal allocation model of water resources where the highly skilled expert experience has been considered therein. The “prospect theory” is employed to analyze highly skilled expert behavior when decision-making events occur. The cumulative prospect theory value is employed to express the highly skilled expert experience. Then, the various elements of the cumulative prospect theory value can be taken as the variables or parameters in the allocation model. Moreover, the optimal water allocation model developed by the general algebraic modeling system (GAMS) has been improved by adding the decision reversal control point and defining the inverse objective function and other constraints. The case study was carried out in the Wuyur River Basin, northeast of China, and shows that the expert experience considered as the decision maker’s preference can be expressed in the improved optimal allocation model. Accordingly, the improved allocation model will contribute to improving the rationality of decision-making results and helping decision-makers better address the problem of water shortage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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24 pages, 7800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Scenario-Based Framework for Conflict Resolution in Water Allocation in Transboundary Watersheds

by Angela Gorgoglione, Magdalena Crisci, Rafael H. Kayser, Christian Chreties and Walter Collischonn

Water 2019, 11(6), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11061174 - 05 Jun 2019

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4655

Abstract

One of the main causes of water conflicts in transboundary watersheds all over the world is represented by the increasing water demand due to urban, industrial, and agricultural development. In this context, water scarcity plays a critical role since, during a drought period, [...] Read more.

One of the main causes of water conflicts in transboundary watersheds all over the world is represented by the increasing water demand due to urban, industrial, and agricultural development. In this context, water scarcity plays a critical role since, during a drought period, water supply is not sufficient to cover the demand of all water uses. In this work, we have conceptualized and developed a new scenario-based framework able to improve the sustainability and equity of water allocation among two or more riparian countries. The proposed approach is in accordance with the United Nations Watercourses Convention. It considers a hydraulic/hydrologic model, a water-management model, and combines them with multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and what if scenario analysis (WISA). The suggested framework was applied to the transboundary watershed of Cuareim/Quaraí river (Uruguay/Brazil) to tackle a real water-sharing conflict. It resulted in being very flexible in exploring various policy options and test and quantifying them with different scenarios to reach an objective and impartial decision in a water-sharing issue. This framework can effectively be applied to any other transboundary watershed to resolve any possible conflict related to water-allocation/water-management matter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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12 pages, 2892 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of the South-North Water Diversion Project on the Water Dispatching Pattern and Ecological Environment in the Water Receiving Area: A Case Study of the Fuyang River Basin in Handan, China

by Hao Fu and Xiaoliu Yang

Water 2019, 11(4), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11040845 - 22 Apr 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4341

Abstract

Inter-basin water transfer projects are widely used in water-stressed areas. North China is facing severe imbalance between water demand and water supply. The South-to-North Water Diversion (SNWD) Project was built to transfer water from the Yangtze River Basin to the Hai River Basin. [...] Read more.

Inter-basin water transfer projects are widely used in water-stressed areas. North China is facing severe imbalance between water demand and water supply. The South-to-North Water Diversion (SNWD) Project was built to transfer water from the Yangtze River Basin to the Hai River Basin. The Fuyang River Basin in the southern part of the Hai River Basin, passing through the Handan city, was chosen as the study area. To identify the effects of the SNWD Project on the water-receiving area, this paper used the decision support system AQUATOOL to simulate the water-dispatching scheme while using the water from the SNWD Project for domestic need in different level years. The results indicate that the SNWD Project provided 128.32 × 10⁶ m³ of water in a wet year, 109.88 × 10⁶ m³ in a normal year and 135.14 × 10⁶ m³ in a dry year to this area. The added quantity of recycled water is 56.75 × 10⁶ m³, 50.59 × 10⁶ m³ and 57.52 × 10⁶ m³, respectively. The water shortage in normal years was covered by the SNWD Project and the water shortage in dry years was reduced by 62.4%. Local environment was improved because of the SNWD Project, i.e., the SNWD water replaced and reduced the use of groundwater and increased the inflow to the Fuyang River and the Yongnian Wetland by increasing the recycled water. This research has demonstrated the SNWD Project has started to play a key role in securing water use and improving the environment in the water-receiving area since its completion in 2014. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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22 pages, 2940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Optimal Allocation Model for Large Complex Water Resources System Considering Water supply and Ecological Needs

by Yaogeng Tan, Zengchuan Dong, Chuansheng Xiong, Zhiyu Zhong and Lina Hou

Water 2019, 11(4), 843; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11040843 - 22 Apr 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3517

Abstract

Water resources are very important to support the socio-economic development and maintain environmental health, which is a typical issue in water resources management. In this study, we developed an optimal allocation model for a large complex system of water resources by considering both [...] Read more.

Water resources are very important to support the socio-economic development and maintain environmental health, which is a typical issue in water resources management. In this study, we developed an optimal allocation model for a large complex system of water resources by considering both water supply and river ecological benefits. The water supply benefit is defined as the minimum water deficit for different water users, while the ecological benefit involves making the reservoir release as close as possible to the natural streamflow. To solve this problem, the combination of decomposition-coordination (DC) and discrete differential dynamic programming (DDDP) methods were proposed. The proposed methods first decomposed a large system with multi-objective programming into subsystems, and the optimal solution of each subsystem was accomplished by the DDDP method to solve the system efficiently. Then the subsystems’ solutions were coordinated to figure out the near global optimal solution. The proposed models were tested in the Lingui and Yongfu County, Guilin City in China. Results show that the optimal reservoir release is close to the natural flow regime and there is a slight water deficit ratio in both level years. The water supply objective is more sensitive to the system model compared with the ecological objective, and the result of water allocation is optimized when the reservoir release is as close as possible to the natural flow based on the minimum water deficit. The proposed system model could facilitate sustainable water use and provide technical support for water resources management in economic development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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28 pages, 5178 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of an Integrated SWAT–MODFLOW Model to Evaluate Potential Impacts of Climate Change and Water Withdrawals on Groundwater–Surface Water Interactions in West-Central Alberta

by David Chunn, Monireh Faramarzi, Brian Smerdon and Daniel S. Alessi

Water 2019, 11(1), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11010110 - 10 Jan 2019

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 10661

Abstract

It has become imperative that surface and groundwater resources be managed as a holistic system. This study applies a coupled groundwater–surface water (GW–SW) model, SWAT–MODFLOW, to study the hydrogeological conditions and the potential impacts of climate change and groundwater withdrawals on GW–SW interactions [...] Read more.

It has become imperative that surface and groundwater resources be managed as a holistic system. This study applies a coupled groundwater–surface water (GW–SW) model, SWAT–MODFLOW, to study the hydrogeological conditions and the potential impacts of climate change and groundwater withdrawals on GW–SW interactions at a regional scale in western Canada. Model components were calibrated and validated using monthly river flow and hydraulic head data for the 1986–2007 period. Downscaled climate projections from five General Circulation Models (GCMs), under the RCP 8.5, for the 2010–2034 period, were incorporated into the calibrated model. The results demonstrated that GW–SW exchange in the upstream areas had the most pronounced fluctuation between the wet and dry months under historical conditions. While climate change was revealed to have a negligible impact in the GW–SW exchange pattern for the 2010–2034 period, the addition of pumping 21 wells at a rate of 4680 m³/d per well to support hypothetical high-volume water use by the energy sector significantly impacted the exchange pattern. The results showed that the total average discharge into the rivers was only slightly reduced from 1294 m³/d to 1174 m³/d; however, localized flowrate differences varied from under 5 m³/d to over 3000 m³/d in 320 of the 405 river cells. The combined potential impact is that intensive groundwater use may have more immediate effects on river flow than those of climate change, which has important implications for water resources management and for energy supply in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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21 pages, 3371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Impacts of Population Growth and Climate Change on Performance of Water Use Systems and Water Allocation in Kano River Basin, Nigeria

by Muhammad Tajuri Ahmad and Naim Haie

Water 2018, 10(12), 1766; https://doi.org/10.3390/w10121766 - 01 Dec 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5936

Abstract

Improving the performance of water use systems (WUSs) is essential for addressing the pressure on water resources for sustainability. Despite the potential impacts of population growth and global warming especially in semi-arid regions, the knowledge and understanding of WUSs and impacts of those [...] Read more.

Improving the performance of water use systems (WUSs) is essential for addressing the pressure on water resources for sustainability. Despite the potential impacts of population growth and global warming especially in semi-arid regions, the knowledge and understanding of WUSs and impacts of those main drivers of change on their performance are not available in the Kano River basin (KRB). This paper assesses these impacts on the performance of KRB, using the new and innovative Sefficiency (sustainable efficiency) framework, which incorporates quantity, quality, and beneficial aspects of water use in a comprehensive and systemic manner. We found that performance of the WUSs is sensitive to population growth and global warming under the scenarios considered. Kano River is relatively less sensitive to global warming impacts, while high population growth is dominant. Moreover, their combined effect will result in a reduction of downstream water by 70% and potential demands will far exceed the available supply by 2050. It is recommended that efficient management of water regarding the qualitative as well as quantitative aspects is very critical in KRB. This study can be regarded as the first step, and future studies may adopt the described methodology and can benefit from smart technologies, e.g., sensors and remote sensing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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20 pages, 4116 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Water Source Joint Scheduling Model Using a Refined Water Supply Network: Case Study of Tianjin

by Shanghong Zhang, Jiasheng Yang, Zhongyu Wan and Yujun Yi

Water 2018, 10(11), 1580; https://doi.org/10.3390/w10111580 - 05 Nov 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3704

Abstract

Water shortage problems are increasing in many water-deficient areas. Most of the current research on multi-source combined water supplies depends on an overall generalization of regional water supply systems, which are seldom broken down into the detail required to address specific research objectives. [...] Read more.

Water shortage problems are increasing in many water-deficient areas. Most of the current research on multi-source combined water supplies depends on an overall generalization of regional water supply systems, which are seldom broken down into the detail required to address specific research objectives. This paper proposes the concept of a water treatment and distribution station (water station), and generalizes the water supply system into three modules: water supply source, water station, and water user. Based on a topological diagram of the water network (supply source–station–user), a refined water resource allocation model was established. The model results can display, in detail, the water supply source, water supply quantity, water distribution engineering, and other information of all users in each water distribution area. This makes it possible to carry out a detailed analysis of the supply and demand of users, and to provide suggestions and theoretical guidance for regional water distribution implementation. Tianjin’s water resource allocation was selected as a case study, and a water resource allocation scheme for a multi-source, combined water supply, was simulated and discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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25 pages, 4174 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Process Representation in the Simulation of the Hydrology of a Meso-Scale Semi-Arid Catchment

by Aline M. L. Saraiva Okello, Ilyas Masih, Stefan Uhlenbrook, Graham P. W. Jewitt and Pieter Van der Zaag

Water 2018, 10(11), 1549; https://doi.org/10.3390/w10111549 - 31 Oct 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3867

Abstract

The variability of rainfall and climate, combined with land use and land cover changes, and variation in geology and soils makes it a difficult task to accurately describe the key hydrological processes in a catchment. With the aim to better understand the key [...] Read more.

The variability of rainfall and climate, combined with land use and land cover changes, and variation in geology and soils makes it a difficult task to accurately describe the key hydrological processes in a catchment. With the aim to better understand the key hydrological processes and runoff generation mechanisms in the semi-arid meso-scale Kaap catchment in South Africa, a hydrological model was developed using the open source STREAM model. Dominant runoff processes were mapped using a simplified Height Above the Nearest Drainage approach combined with geology. The Prediction in Ungauged Basins (PUB) framework of runoff signatures was used to analyse the model results. Results show that in the headwater sub-catchments of Noordkaap and Suidkaap, plateaus dominate, associated with slow flow processes. Therefore, these catchments have high baseflow components and are likely the main recharge zone for regional groundwater in the Kaap. In the Queens sub-catchment, hillslopes associated with intermediate and fast flow processes dominate. However, this catchment still has a strong baseflow component, but it seems to be more impacted by evaporation depletion, due to different soils and geology, especially in drier years. At the Kaap outlet, the model indicates that hillslopes are important, with intermediate and fast flow processes dominating and most runoff being generated through direct runoff and shallow groundwater components, particularly in wetter months and years. There is a high impact of water abstractions and evaporation during the dry season, affecting low flows in the catchment. Results also indicate that the root zone storage and the parameters of effective rainfall separation (between unsaturated and saturated zone), quickflow coefficient and capillary rise, were very sensitive in the model. The inclusion of capillary rise (feedback from the saturated to unsaturated zone) greatly improved the simulation results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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11 pages, 2415 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Water Footprint and Water Pinch Analysis in Ethanol Industrial Production for Water Management

by Heng Liu, Lijun Ren, Huimin Zhuo and Sanze Fu

Water 2019, 11(3), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/w11030518 - 12 Mar 2019

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5690

Abstract

Fuel ethanol is considered to be a clean alternative fuel to meet increasing energy demands and mitigate environmental pollution. Faced with challenges in terms of energy security and environmental pollution, China is vigorously developing fuel ethanol. However, ethanol-manufacturing is a water-intensive industry; it [...] Read more.

Fuel ethanol is considered to be a clean alternative fuel to meet increasing energy demands and mitigate environmental pollution. Faced with challenges in terms of energy security and environmental pollution, China is vigorously developing fuel ethanol. However, ethanol-manufacturing is a water-intensive industry; it consumes large volumes of fresh water and generates a corresponding amount of waste water. Expansion of this industry can reduce water quality and cause water stress. This study aims to combine the water footprint (WF) with a water pinch analysis technique to manage water consumption and sewage discharge systematically in an ethanol plant. A well-operated cassava ethanol plant in China was chosen as a case study. The WF of industrial ethanol production was evaluated. The total WF was 17.08 L/L ethanol, comprised of a 7.69 L blue water footprint (BWF), and a 9.39 L gray water footprint (GWF). The direct WF was 16.38 L/L ethanol, and the indirect WF was 0.70 L/L ethanol. Thereafter, a water pinch analysis was conducted, and the optimal direct water reuse scheme was studied. After the water network was optimized, the BWF was reduced by 0.98 L/L ethanol, while the GWF was reduced by 1.47 L/L ethanol. These results indicate that the combined use of WF and pinch analysis can provide the starch-based ethanol industry with an effective tool to improve its water management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water Resource System Modeling to Support Sustainable Water Management)

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