Abstract |
The problem of developing relevant water quality levels for a water supply entity is studied. One objective of the study was to develop a systematic and integrated system for establishing the level of quality for a given water supply. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to identify polluters and water uses by quality constituents, quantify the physical linkage of uses, and specify the alternative techniques for diminishing the conflicting quality constituents of the supply. A second objective was to formulate a method to estimate the least-cost means of achieving a particular level of quality and then apply this analytical approach to a water supply area. Another objective was to suggest the major physical, economic, and institutional aspects of a water quality management system. In order to meet these objectives, a model was constructed for estimating costs and benefits of using water for various purposes. (Author Modified Abstract) |