OPTIMAL ALLOCATION OF WATER WITHDRAWALS IN A RIVER BASIN

An increasing number of states use permit programs to coordinate and t o control water resource allocations. A general approach is suggested for allocating and permitting water withdrawals in a river basin. A ma thematical programming methodology facilitates optimal streamflow allo cation while maintaining desired levels of instream flow. The approach uses a graphical tool, the flow duration curve, to illustrate the qua ntity and frequency of joint streamflow withdrawals in a river basin. The methodology is unique because while it uses mathematical programmi ng methods, it is implemented using a spreadsheet optimization tool, M icrosoft Excel Solver, and the solution is illustrated in a graphical form so that nontechnical individuals can easily understand the method ology results. The ability to apply the methodology and clearly explai n the results is extremely important since many nontechnical individua ls are involved as policymakers in water allocation decisions.