Related Experiment Videos
Reservoir yield assessment in a changing Scottish environment
Paul W Jowitt1, Debbie Hay-Smith
1The Scottish Institute of Sustainability and the Department of Civil and Offshore Engineering, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK. p.w.jowitt@hw.ac.uk
The Science of the Total Environment
|August 10, 2002
Summary
This study reviews reservoir yield estimation methods in Scotland, emphasizing the importance of inflow data and catchment boundaries. It recommends a flexible approach for water resource management amid climate change and industry shifts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Resource Management
- Hydrology
Background:
- Review of water yield in Scotland preceding water industry reorganization in 1996.
- Context of climate change impacts, sustainability, and demand-side management.
- Followed the 1994 Scottish Office Environment Department's water resources survey.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare reservoir yield estimation methods.
- To recommend a flexible and consistent approach for single water sources.
- To provide a basis for extending methods to conjunctive water supply schemes.
Main Methods:
- Comparative review of various reservoir yield estimation techniques.
- Case study analysis of Loch Bradan water resource.
- Evaluation of data derivation for inflow records and catchment boundaries.
Main Results:
- Inflow record derivation and catchment boundary definition are critical.
- These factors are as important as the yield assessment method itself.
- Highlights the need for robust data for accurate water resource assessment.
Conclusions:
- A flexible and consistent approach to yield assessment is recommended.
- Accurate data collection is paramount for effective water resource management.
- Findings are relevant for water authorities managing resources under changing environmental and institutional conditions.