State-of-the-art management models for lakes and reservoirs

This paper reviews current models that can be used in lake management, mainly for eutrophication and wetland areas. The latter type of model, in particular, has developed rapidly during the past decade due to the increasing importance of wetlands as traps for nutrients originating from non-point sources. The experience gained in lake modelling since the mid-1980s can be summarized as follows: (i) 3-D hydrodynamic models are available today but are not necessarily the right answer to a given modelling problem (dependent on data availability); (ii) models with a wide spectrum of complexities are available which make it possible to select a type of model appropriate to available data; and (iii) several models with general applicability are available, yet it is necessary to tailor a model for each individual case (generally based on experience from previous model studies). The experience gained by the use of the so-called Glumsø model on 25 case studies led to the same conclusion: modifications are needed in the original model for each new case study to allow for the specific characteristics of the lake modelled. Lake management models have been developed for eutrophication, oxygen depletion, various specific pollution problems, thermocline formation, acidification, and the use of wetlands to cope with non-point pollution, particularly for removal of nitrogen by denitrification. An overview of available models, including their shortcomings, is given in the text. We have experience in using models for many different environmental problems of lakes, but it is necessary to improve these models by including more ecological components. These improvements are discussed in relation to the most recent experiences in the use of models with dynamic structures.