River Water Quality Modelling: III. Future of the Art

Abstract

This paper is the third of a three-part series summarizing the background to and objectives of the activity of the IAWQ Task Group on River Water Quality Modelling (RWQM). On the basis of the two other papers and a comparison between the best known state of the art river model, QUAL2E, and the IAWQ Activated Sludge Model (ASM) No. 1, the Task Group proposes to develop improved conversion models for inclusion in a river water quality model. The model should describe the cycling of oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus in both water and sediment, and should be compatible with the ASM to support the development of integrated emission reduction strategies. The model should be particularly well suited to handle problems characterized by significant temporal and spatial influences (e.g. CSOs and NPSs). It should serve for research, education, improved communication, knowledge transfer, regulatory applications such as catchment planning, and improved data collection. Anticipated results of the Task Group effort include: (i) standardized conversion sub-models; (ii) a decision support tool to guide model construction and usage; and (iii) case study applications. The model development, which is not intended to result in a software product, is intended to be an open-ended and flexible process to encourage the participation of interested professionals.