A linear programing economic analysis of lake quality improvements using phosphorus buffer curves

A linear programing model is used to evaluate the economic feasibility of reducing phosphorus loads from cropland to levels that are expected to alter adequately the trophic conditions of a water supply reservoir. The model employs phosphorus buffer curves for distributing phosphorus losses between runoff and eroded soil. Phosphorus pollution reductions are estimated for conservation activities according to the amount of erosion control and phosphorus fertility status. The planning model is intended to provide the best available estimates of pollution control attainable with given budget outlays, as well as to allocate pollution control funds efficiently among watersheds. It also contains sufficient detail to suggest practices for each local soil that are consistent with water quality plans.