Development of a Model Selection Tool for Hydrodynamic, Runoff, and Fate and Transport Models
Client: HydroQual, Inc., Mahwah, New Jersey
Funding: Water Environment Research Foundation, Alexandria, VA
In order to assist its member subscribers in making the appropriate
choice of water quality modeling tools for their specific problems, the
Water Environment Research Federation provided funding for a study to
assess the availability and use of hydrodynamic, runoff, and fate and
transport models. AQUA TERRA Consultants teamed with HydroQual and
Camp, Dresser and McKee to perform a comprehensive evaluation of
currently available models.
Upon completion of the model evaluation, AQUA TERRA developed a
Visual Basic application called the WERF Model Selection Tool. The tool
considers all of the approximately 150 models identified jointly by the
Project Team and the WERF PSC. Model evaluation capabilities were
organized using the model classes, with selection criteria varying
somewhat from class to class. A "checkbox" approach to identifying
models was implemented. Users are asked to assign a yes or no
designation to each of the selection criteria used to characterize the
models in a particular class. As the checkbox designations are made,
the tool continually updates a list of models that satisfy the
requirements indicated by the user. By either tightening or loosening
the model requirements, the user is able to identify an appropriate
number of models for more detailed consideration. Model descriptions
are available within the decision tool for all models; the model
descriptions provide an initial source for additional information, and
at the same time provide guidance on how to obtain technical assistance
and/or more detailed documentation.
AQUA TERRA also provided an instructor for a WERF-sponsored workshop
that offered an overview of available models and training on using the
model selection tool to attendees of the WEFTEC 2000 Conference in
Anaheim, California (October 2000).
