Multi-Criterion Decision Analysis (MCDA) & Value of Data and Models in Hydrology (Completed)

This project aims at employing the MCDA technique in a novel way to address the efficiency of watershed instrumentation programs and the efficacy of watershed modeling. The approach has been applied to case study of reconstructed watersheds in northern Alberta, Canada, and will be applied to natural watersheds. A payoff matrix containing multiple evaluation criteria and various management scenarios is constructed. Various matrices can be constructed using observed (measured) values or the output of simulation models. The alternatives (scenarios) can be ranked based on the "simulated-values" matrix and the "observed-values" matrix. Comparing the results, along with sensitivity analyses, can help in addressing the issue of waterhed monitoring and modeling.