Natural flow in managed catchments: A case study of a modelling approach

In the U.K., the water resources of many catchments are heavily managed and the existing constraints on their use must be built into future management . Recent developments in catchment modelling mean that the practical use of models, to analyse catchment behaviour and assist with the management proc ess, is a feasible option. However, few models include appropriate water ma nagement components that will permit application to those areas for which t hey are most needed. This paper describes the integration of simple managem ent controls into a spatially distributed hydrological model and illustrate s how the model can be used to assist in catchment management, through a ca se study of the Carron catchment in Central Scotland. The model was success fully applied to predict how in both the upland region of the catchment. wh ere there are several reservoirs and significant transfers of water and the lowland region of the catchment, which is a predominantly urban area. A si mple modification to the water management procedures illustrates how the mo del may be used to help achieve naturalisation of the dow regime, thus sati sfying the requirements of the precautionary principle. (C) 1998 Elsevier S cience Ltd. All rights reserved.