Hydrologic computer simulation for the Upper Snake River reservoir system

TitleHydrologic computer simulation for the Upper Snake River reservoir system
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Conference1999
AuthorsAbramovich, R., Ammon R., Coble K., and Swank L.
Conference Name67th Annual Western Snow Conference
Series TitleProceedings of the 67th Annual Western Snow Conference
Date PublishedApril 1999
PublisherWestern Snow Conference
Conference LocationSouth Lake Tahoe, California
KeywordsModeling, Real time, Reservoir discharge, Simulation
Abstract

A computer software program has been developed to visually simulate and display the daily operation of the Upper Snake River and Reservoir System in eastern Idaho and Wyoming. R*TIME, a real time software system developed by SCIENTECH Inc., has been linked to the water district's database creating a visual display of daily reservoir contents, river discharges, and snow water equivalent graphs and indexes while utilizing color alarms and river widths in proportion to flow. The real time display configuration provides the user and audience with a fast analysis and comparison of previous water years that was previously possible only with meticulous study of charts and graphs, or years of experience. The simulation display includes a time scale with pause, rewind, and fast , forward buttons enabling the users to animate the reservoir 'teacup' display at variable speeds. The computer simulation is used as a tool for improving future water management and distribution by policy makers, water resource managers and water users. It is also an educational tool for displaying the complexity of a river and reservoir system.

URLsites/westernsnowconference.org/PDFs/1999AbramovichA.pdf