Simulation of water quality along river courses a case study: Gediz river basın

The identification of water quality characteristics in space and time dimensions is essential for the development of efficient basin management policies. To this end, computer based simulation models have found a wide area of application as effective management tools. Simulation models can be used to develop numerical results about water quantity and quality for the decision making process. QUAL2E - Water Quality Model, which has been used for management purposes in several developed countries is selected for this study. QUAL2E - Water Quality Model simulates water quality in space and time dimensions, helps to estimate the levels of pollution caused by polluting sources, and aids in the planning of appropriate monitoring programs to monitor the quality of surface waters. The uncertainty analysis component of the model also provides effective possibilities for risk analyses as an essential step for management. In this study, the model is applied to the case of the Gediz river basin where the quality of surface waters has significantly degraded within the recent years. Due to limitations in data availability, water quality observations of only 6 monitoring stations operated in 1983 could be used in the study. If the model can be run with an updated data set, the results can be expected to provide a scientific basis for planners and managers of the basin towards better practices of water quality management.