A Spatial Decision Support System for Water Environment Forecasting and Management

In this study, a spatial decision support system was designed and developed to enhance the feasibility of using complex models in real-world practical and support efficient water environment management. The system integrates the capabilities of geographical information systems (GIS), database technology, intelligent techniques, optimization procedures and expert systems. It provides a common framework and logic for interactive analysis, information management and decision making. The system adopts the forecasting -optimization - decision scheme for planning and operational management of water resources. It is capable of addressing a wide spectrum of issues including: predicting water flow and water level; determining the limits of sustainable development; deciding what, where and when new resources should be developed; performing optimization of the operational management for a given configuration and time horizon. Intelligent techniques such as artificial neuron network, genetic algorithm are employed to develop forecasting modules and decision modules.