Using computers to find the optimal river system operation strategy

One approach to finding the optimal operation is to use a computer model for simulating various river system operating strategies. These simulations then can be used to calculate the costs and benefits of each strategy. The Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company (WVIC) used one such computer model to simulate its operation of the Wisconsin River. With the model and other computer spread-sheet programs, WVIC was able to estimate the economic value of hydro-power, recreation, and water quality benefits provided by particular river system operation strategies. This information was useful for WVIC as it prepared an application for a new license (relicense) from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).