The RRBDIN has developed answers to some frequently ask questions about water
resource modeling. There is also access to an inventory of models in the
Red River Basin. Please read below for more information.
Access Inventory of Models
An initial inventory of water resource models for the U.S. and Canada has
been assembled. The database contains a record for each model developed
for a location or stream reach. The inventory is meant to provide general
information about the model and the name of the organization to contact about
the model. If you would like to contribute to the
inventory or find errors in the inventory, please contact the
webmaster. This
inventory will only be useful if there is involvement from the Red River Basin
community. Information can also be submitted via the
feedback form.
What are computer models?
Computer models are simply mathematical equations that represent
real-world processes packaged in a software program. Example models common
in water resource problem solving include: HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, Mike 11, Mike 21,
RMA2, and SWMM.
Why are they important?
Computer models play an important role in essentially all aspects of water
management and planning. From the perspective of the scientist and
researcher, the role of mathematical models is to contribute to a better
understanding of real-world processes. From the perspective of the water
manger, the role of mathematical models is to provide quantitative information
to support decision-making activities. Models help both individual water
managers and the water management community to make better decisions.
Models do not relieve people of the burden of making difficult decisions.
They simply provide some additional information to consider. Models
strengthen the knowledge base which supports decision-making processes.
Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, July 1994, IWR Report
94-NDS-7
Models are especially important in the Red River of the North
Basin because of water related issues. Models can hold very important
information about water
resources. The importance of this information has
lead to an inventory of available models in the
basin in the mid 1970's. The inventory is a list of models provided
voluntarily by various organizations.
It is not meant to be a comprehensive list, but rather a start to what could be a comprehensive
list. The inventory currently only holds some hydraulic and hydrology models,
but could be expanded to all related models for the Red River Basin. These
could include water quality, groundwater, socio-economic, and ecological models.
Who should use computer models?
Qualified professionals that understand the model. In most cases this is an engineer or scientific researcher.
Uses of Modeling
Computer models are often used to help understand how water can be managed for
water supply, wastewater
collection and treatment, protection and enhancement of the environment
resources, pollution prevention, recreation, navigation, hydroelectric power
generation, stormwater drainage, erosion and sedimentation control, and
controlling flood waters to reduce damages.
Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, July 1994, IWR Report
94-NDS-7
Links to Modeling Information
List of
hydraulic models by FEMA.
USGS water resources
application software list.
U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers Hydrologic Engineering Center
EPA Water Quality
Models
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