Application of Robust Optimization Approach for Agricultural Water Resource Management under Uncertainty

Abstract

Optimization models are widely used in agricultural water resources management programs. However, optimization models in most applications use data that is subject to uncertainty. Recently, robust optimization has been used as an optimization model that incorporates uncertainty. This paper proposes a linear programming model with the objective of maximizing the total gross margin for the delivery of water to agricultural areas that cover an irrigation network over a planning horizon. The writers apply uncertain data in this system in the form of a robust optimization approach. The writers also consider analysis of the sensitivity of the total gross margin in accordance with the variations of the degree of conservatism (reliability), irrigation efficiency, and price of irrigation water. The results of changes to these parameters in a wide range of variations caused large changes in the optimal total gross margin of the planning horizon. Application of the proposed model to the case study of the Nekooabad irrigation network in the province of Isfahan, Iran, over a 3-year planning horizon (2012–2014) demonstrates the reliability and flexibility of the model.