Chapter
2
In this chapter the problem of expanding an existing water resources system
is formulated in mathematical terms by providing functions, equations,
and inequalities that represent appropriate criteria and the characteristics
of the physical system. The locations of possible dam sites are assumed to
be determined by the topography and runoff of a particular region
[McLaughlin, 1967]. Of interest here is the question of when new elements
should be added to an existing system and how large the new elements
(such as dams and canals) should be. We shall first consider some of the
major assumptions and decisions that must be made in formulating the
problem statement, and then take up in order (1) establishment of an
objective function representing the criteria for the river basin, and (2)
formulation of a model of the river basin, including identification of the
different elements and the costs and benefits.
2.1· Assumptions Made in Preparing the Problem Statement
To prepare a problem statement that is compatible with the solution
techniques available, certain assumptions must be made with respect to
water resources development. The most significant assumptions are as
follows.
1. The time scale for the introduction of new projects is chosen to be a
year. Each new project becomes part of the system at the start of the
year. Planning capital investment projects on a yearly time base is the
accepted planning procedure in both the public and private sectors [Lesso,
38
2
In this chapter the problem of expanding an existing water resources system
is formulated in mathematical terms by providing functions, equations,
and inequalities that represent appropriate criteria and the characteristics
of the physical system. The locations of possible dam sites are assumed to
be determined by the topography and runoff of a particular region
[McLaughlin, 1967]. Of interest here is the question of when new elements
should be added to an existing system and how large the new elements
(such as dams and canals) should be. We shall first consider some of the
major assumptions and decisions that must be made in formulating the
problem statement, and then take up in order (1) establishment of an
objective function representing the criteria for the river basin, and (2)
formulation of a model of the river basin, including identification of the
different elements and the costs and benefits.
2.1· Assumptions Made in Preparing the Problem Statement
To prepare a problem statement that is compatible with the solution
techniques available, certain assumptions must be made with respect to
water resources development. The most significant assumptions are as
follows.
1. The time scale for the introduction of new projects is chosen to be a
year. Each new project becomes part of the system at the start of the
year. Planning capital investment projects on a yearly time base is the
accepted planning procedure in both the public and private sectors [Lesso,
38