Expert Systems for the Interpretation of River Quality Data

Sample data on river quality are used for a variety of management purposes. The paper considers the role of expert systems in interpreting such data. An example is given of a prototype rule-based system designed to aid in assessing compliance with European Community (EC) Directives. It is suggested that, although this type of formal characterization is a necessary part of management, it provides poor information for decision making. The development of an expert system to provide a more accurate and informative interpretation of episodic pollution events is then described. The paper concludes by discussing the practical application of these approaches.