Operational warning and management systems

Rivers, coastlines, polder systems, water defences and groundwater are monitored continuously. That is essential to ensure timely and adequate responses to situations like possible floods, or droughts caused by a low water table. We develop systems that allow our clients to manage deltas, coastlines, polders and river basins. In that way, we map out risks, forecast threats and then minimise the risks, but we also provide optimal guidance based on how the land and water is used. Whenever that is needed.

Studying water management and forecasts

We are committed to maximising management reliability in water management and forecasts and therefore to making it clear how reliable the forecasts are. What are the implications of heavy rainfall in combination with high water levels in a river? How do falling groundwater tables affect the rest of the water system? When and where will a dike fail? Where are ad hoc changes needed in water levels to achieve the optimal groundwater level? Our systems generate completely automated forecasts by making the most of all the available data and by using computer models effectively. Generally, our research concentrates on the operational application of high-grade knowledge. At other times we join forces with, for example, consultants to establish strategic long-term visions for operational water management. This may involve monitoring and surveying plans, but also plans for managing water quality.

Consultancy

Our clients are mainly local, regional and national government authorities in the Netherlands and worldwide. In many cases, we operate in partnership with consultancy companies. Our specialist consultancy concentrates on:

• Reservoir management
• Groundwater modelling: the continuous prediction of groundwater levels
• Monitoring and prediction of current dike and levee strength
• Monitoring and prediction of water quality (salt intrusion, algae etc) 
  

In day-to-day water management, these operating areas are closely related. Our wide-ranging expertise means we can supply high-grade integrated solutions.

Training

Designing and developing management systems require tailor-made solutions. A good simulation of the actual situation of water management is also needed for given locations at given times. We use advanced software, computer models and the available data for this purpose. Once a management system or an emergency scenario has been completed, we are happy to transfer our knowledge and skills. We supply courses to help clients get the most out of their forecasting and information systems.

We advise about:

• Drought Forecasting using Delft-FEWS
• Flood Forecasting using Delft-FEWS
• Water Quality Forecasting
• Water Quality Information Systems
• Water Information Systems using Delft-FEWS