Optimal Control Model for Groundwater Management

Abstract

An optimal control management model for spatial and temporal allocation of groundwater is presented. The management model integrates a physically‐based finite‐difference aquifer simulation model, and a linear‐quadratic optimal control model. The objective functional represents present discounted benefits determined from the derived demands for irrigation water net of pumping costs. The dynamic aquifer simulation equations are directly incorporated in the optimal control model, and the cost of pumping is calculated using a drawdown correction. Aggregated parameters obtained from detailed digital model studies such as by the US Geological Survey can be used to readily calibrate the model for a particular groundwater basin. A case study application is presented to demonstrate the potential use of the model as a management tool.