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A suggested approach to effective water resource management using the Umgeni resource system as a test case

Anthony J. Tollow

Durban Institute of Technology—University of Technology, Box 684, Kloof 3640, KZNatal, South Africa

anthony_tollow@yahoo.co.uk, tollow@dit.ac.za

Abstract A method of operating a water resources system effectively both during extreme conditions and during average conditions is to be desired. This may be achieved using the “control band” approach. When shortages occur there may need to be a policy for reducing long-term consumption by employing increasing restrictions on the amount of water that may be used. There may also be a need to reduce long-term consumption too, especially where resources appear to be becoming more limited. However, there is a need to prove the efficiency of the proposal. This may be achieved by developing a “credibility” index. Alternatives require the analysis of risk, reliability and vulnerability of the system under the proposed method of operation both initially and when the system is being used in the field. This would help to justify the method adopted.

Key words alternative approach; effective water resources management; “control bands”; credibility; reliability; sustainability; verification

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