Optimization of Water Resources Allocation Using the Modsim Model

by L. Philip Graham, Resource Consultants, Inc, United States,
David M. Frick, Resource Consultants, Inc, United States,
Daniel L. Law, Resource Consultants, Inc, United States,
Peter D. Binney, Resource Consultants, Inc, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Optimizing the Resources for Water Management

Abstract:

The Fraser River Basin is located in north central Colorado west of the Continental Divide in an alpine basin with elevations ranging from 8,000 to 12,000 feet. Existing permanent resident population density is relatively low throughout the basin. Existing water development projects in the basin are primarily associated with transbasin diversion of water for municipal use in east slope communities. Water resources in the basin have long been diverted to the east slope of the Continental Divide to satisfy extensive out-of-basin municipal demand. The Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority was approached in late 1986 by a group of sponsoring agencies to perform a Phase I Feasibility Study designed to identify the conceptual framework of how plan elements should be combined to meet identified needs. In the study, MODSIM served as a useful conceptual planning tool capable of simulating a complex water resource system overlain by various consumptive and diversion demands as well as institutional constraints. The model has allowed efficient analysis of a large array of potential projects and provided the decision makers with information that will allow them to identify a development project that does not conflict with the established interests of other parties.

Subject Headings: Water resources | Hydro power | Water supply | Water conservation | Resource allocation | Municipal water | Basins | Colorado | United States

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