Model for Prescribing Ground‐Water Use Permits

Abstract

In 1986 the Massachusetts Water Management Act was passed, allowing greater control over both surface and ground‐water withdrawals. The act has the dual goal of allowing sustained economic growth and protecting the natural environment, which is accomplished via a process of permitting all water withdrawals greater than 0.1 MGD. Economic growth is equated with water available for current and future use, and protection of the natural environment is interpreted to mean prevention of streamflow depletion. This paper presents a multiobjective linear programming management model that can assist in the determination of ground‐water permit conditions. The model is based on the interrelationship of ground and surface waters, and incorporates physical and institutional considerations. Results of the model provide allowable withdrawals for permit applicants for specified periods throughout the year. Results of the multiobjective model are compared with permits that were established by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. By following the guidance provided by the model results, permits could be established that allow withdrawal of larger quantities of water without sacrificing the environmental goal.