WWRC 87-09
Waste Load Allocation in Stochastic Stream Environments
Abstract
The waste load allocation (WLA) process is an important but complex
part of decision-making in regional water quality management. The
results of WLA have profound implications on regional environmental
protection. It requires a sound understanding of the physical, chemical
and biological processes of the aquatic environment and an appreciation
for the legal, social, and environmental impacts of such decisions.
Most WLA processes are performed using either pollutant transport
simulation models or deterministic optimization models. Only a few
stochastic WLA models have been developed which treat either streamflow
or background pollution as random variables to avoid nonlinearity in the
model formulation so as to simplify the solution procedures.
This research is directed toward the development of an optimal
stochastic waste load allocation model considering the uncertainty
associated with physical, chemical and biological parameters in the
transport equation for a complex multiple discharge setting. A general
solution technique for solving the nonlinear WLA model, as a result of
considering the overall uncertainty, will be developed. The result of
this investigation is to expand the capability of performing WLA in a
stochastic environment and to enhance the understanding of the tradeoffs
between risk and economics, ultimately in order to develop a more
effective and realistic decision-making process for the future.
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