**2.2.1 Information system**

The platform web map server was developed based on the GeoClient application (Rogers and Rosie, 2001). This application has been improved, and some new features and functionalities were added. Noteworthy, was the translation into Portuguese of all the menus and the inclusion of the possibility of automatic export of features to a Google Earth compatible data format. The graphical information themes are organized into databases. Updates of geographical data, adding and deleting data are operations that should be undertaken by the administrator of the database, in accordance with standard methodologies for databases operations. The map visualized in the client side is defined using a form and is automatically generated by an application developed for this purpose. The database administrator can set pre-defined maps. It is also possible for the user to view the results of water quality simulations available on the modelling system. The user must select the rivers and the instant of simulation to be represented in the map interface. The requested map information is communicated to the server and is transferred to the client computer at once. All subsequent operations are dependent on the processing capacity of the client´s machine.

The Geoclient application further developed at University of Minho, and integrated in this platform comprises the following major functionalities (Figure 3): full navigation (zoom in, zoom out and pan); map display of alphanumeric data associated to geographic entities; queries with results in chart or table; set labels display properties, export the map to a file, compliant with the Google Earth application; configurable legend presentation; presentation of a navigation map; selection of display options.

Navigation on the map is accomplished through some buttons on the toolbar which allow, for example, zoom in, zoom out and restore the original view. The toolbar shows the cursor coordinates and the labels associated to the graphical entities that are under the cursor. The panning can also be accomplished using the navigation map. The data associated with each graphic object are available, once the information button is pressed. The data are shown on a table and it is possible to generate a chart with the numeric values of all occurrences of the displayed map. The search tool allows the identification of objects throughout a table or a graph/chart, which satisfy the given search criteria. This criterion can be based on a comprehensive set of comparison operators. Search results can be quickly identified (by zoom in to the object or by its placement in the central area of the map) (Figure 4).

seven modules: hydrology, hydrodynamics in channels, hydrodynamics in rivers, sewers, real-time control, water quality and floods. Its integrated approach allows the simultaneously simulation of real problems involving different modules. It is based on a robust and reliable numerical method that allows achieving solutions even for highly complex situations.

The consideration of graphical data within the developed interfaces was considered fundamental for a fast and intuitive understanding of the simulated features. In this case, the choice was the image technology SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). SVG is an XML specification for graphics and has outstanding features as: ability to make enlargements without loss of resolution, the creation of motion graphics that facilitate presentation of results related to dynamic simulations, allows interactivity with the objects represented and the possibility of associating alphanumeric information to graphics. Beyond that, has a

The platform web map server was developed based on the GeoClient application (Rogers and Rosie, 2001). This application has been improved, and some new features and functionalities were added. Noteworthy, was the translation into Portuguese of all the menus and the inclusion of the possibility of automatic export of features to a Google Earth compatible data format. The graphical information themes are organized into databases. Updates of geographical data, adding and deleting data are operations that should be undertaken by the administrator of the database, in accordance with standard methodologies for databases operations. The map visualized in the client side is defined using a form and is automatically generated by an application developed for this purpose. The database administrator can set pre-defined maps. It is also possible for the user to view the results of water quality simulations available on the modelling system. The user must select the rivers and the instant of simulation to be represented in the map interface. The requested map information is communicated to the server and is transferred to the client computer at once. All subsequent operations are dependent on the processing capacity of

The Geoclient application further developed at University of Minho, and integrated in this platform comprises the following major functionalities (Figure 3): full navigation (zoom in, zoom out and pan); map display of alphanumeric data associated to geographic entities; queries with results in chart or table; set labels display properties, export the map to a file, compliant with the Google Earth application; configurable legend presentation; presentation

Navigation on the map is accomplished through some buttons on the toolbar which allow, for example, zoom in, zoom out and restore the original view. The toolbar shows the cursor coordinates and the labels associated to the graphical entities that are under the cursor. The panning can also be accomplished using the navigation map. The data associated with each graphic object are available, once the information button is pressed. The data are shown on a table and it is possible to generate a chart with the numeric values of all occurrences of the displayed map. The search tool allows the identification of objects throughout a table or a graph/chart, which satisfy the given search criteria. This criterion can be based on a comprehensive set of comparison operators. Search results can be quickly identified (by

zoom in to the object or by its placement in the central area of the map) (Figure 4).

reduced download time, compared to other more conventional types of images.

**2.2.1 Information system** 

the client´s machine.

of a navigation map; selection of display options.

Fig. 3. Web-GIS service for the developed platform

Fig. 4. Search Tool of GeoClient – Web-GIS service application of ODeCav modelling system

Map legend can be customized by the user; it's possible to change the colour of the displayed themes, set their classification according the values of numeric fields and show graphics (bars or circles) for numeric fields. For each object represented on the map there is a field associated on the database that is used for representing their labels on the main view. This feature can be assigned automatically for all entities of the map or placed entity by

Web-Based Decision Support Framework for

Fig. 6. River detailed information

graphical layout in the client side (Figure 7).

Water Resources Management at River Basin Scale 51

A web application to access monitoring data was developed. The service provided by this application includes the following functionalities: graphical selection of the monitoring station from the map or from a list of available monitoring stations; graphic visualization of the data series for the selected parameter at a given station, data presentation in tabular layout and the possibility of exporting to a file compatible with MS Excel. It also allows the calculation of statistical parameters of the active data series and the automatic generation of a report. After selection of a particular parameter the associated data is displayed in a

entity. The user has the possibility to define graphical properties of these labels. Finally, the application allows the automatic export of the map for later viewing on the Google Earth application. The export module is designed to convert the different coordinate data used by the two applications (Figure 5).

Fig. 5. Export of geographical features to Google Earth compatible data format

In addition it was developed an application to present detailed information about the river network. The application allows making a virtual visit to the rivers, enabling to locate relevant features that are relevant for the rivers hydrodynamics (eg. dams, weirs, controlled gates) and water quality (eg. waste water treatment plants, industries). Navigation is driven by selection of river segments. The user selects the river to visualize from an initial map. Then the navigation tools and the interactive legend allow the user to activate/deactivate the selected themes.

This application allows the visualization of all the alphanumeric data associated with all the entities and to display photos if available. The information management operations are performed on the database. Operations like insert, update, edition, addition or deleting are performed with proper tools for databases management. Aerial photos are stored outside the database in individual and separated files. Only their basic properties are stored in the database.

Figure 6 presents, for illustrative purposes, some views of river detailed information at river Cávado basin.

Meteorological, hydrometric and water quality information are available on the platform. This database contains historical records of the variables monitored for active monitoring stations. These data are the basis for water quality diagnostics assessment, and to the definition of modelling scenarios to predict the water quality dynamics.

entity. The user has the possibility to define graphical properties of these labels. Finally, the application allows the automatic export of the map for later viewing on the Google Earth application. The export module is designed to convert the different coordinate data used by

Fig. 5. Export of geographical features to Google Earth compatible data format

In addition it was developed an application to present detailed information about the river network. The application allows making a virtual visit to the rivers, enabling to locate relevant features that are relevant for the rivers hydrodynamics (eg. dams, weirs, controlled gates) and water quality (eg. waste water treatment plants, industries). Navigation is driven by selection of river segments. The user selects the river to visualize from an initial map. Then the navigation tools and the interactive legend allow the user to activate/deactivate

This application allows the visualization of all the alphanumeric data associated with all the entities and to display photos if available. The information management operations are performed on the database. Operations like insert, update, edition, addition or deleting are performed with proper tools for databases management. Aerial photos are stored outside the database in individual and separated files. Only their basic properties are stored in the

Figure 6 presents, for illustrative purposes, some views of river detailed information at river

Meteorological, hydrometric and water quality information are available on the platform. This database contains historical records of the variables monitored for active monitoring stations. These data are the basis for water quality diagnostics assessment, and to the

definition of modelling scenarios to predict the water quality dynamics.

the two applications (Figure 5).

the selected themes.

database.

Cávado basin.

Fig. 6. River detailed information

A web application to access monitoring data was developed. The service provided by this application includes the following functionalities: graphical selection of the monitoring station from the map or from a list of available monitoring stations; graphic visualization of the data series for the selected parameter at a given station, data presentation in tabular layout and the possibility of exporting to a file compatible with MS Excel. It also allows the calculation of statistical parameters of the active data series and the automatic generation of a report. After selection of a particular parameter the associated data is displayed in a graphical layout in the client side (Figure 7).

Web-Based Decision Support Framework for

hydropower generation plants.

of the profile (Figure 10).

pollutant concentrations and discharges.

Fig. 9. Web interface for hydrodynamic models

Water Resources Management at River Basin Scale 53

Cross sections of the river channels considered in the developed model were established using bathymetric and topographic data available for this river basin. The one-dimensional grid comprises 1722 computational nodes, 22 open boundaries, 51 controlled discharges at hydraulic structures and 105 non controlled hydraulic structures. The rivers channels geometry was introduced considering 1854 cross sections. Pollutant sources are simulated considering 84 different locations in the river basin. All hydraulic structures with a significant influence in the rivers flows regime were considered with emphasis for dams and

A web interface to present model results and operate the model execution was developed. This tool interacts with the model installed on a remote server, and allows setting up and activating new simulations. The user has access to applications that permit change the hydraulic structures operational settings during simulations, define hydropower generation time scheduling, establish tributaries discharge flows under different scenarios and define

Figures 9 and 10 shows the main view of the designed interface for hydrodynamic and water quality models, where several functionalities are available (graphic display of the river profile, plan view, tables and graphics results and animations). This interface allows either setting up the data needed to define new simulations and viewing the results of a selected simulation. The main window of the interface corresponds to the graphical display

Each one of the included icons has one or more PHP modules associated responsible to produce the desirable output. As already mentioned, the developed interface allows both setting up the input data for new model simulations and presenting final results. To define


Fig. 7. Monitoring data interface

## **2.2.2 Modeling system**

The modelling system consists in mathematical models of the rivers network to simulate river water discharge flows and levels (hydrodynamics) and the transport of substances or properties that are used as water quality indicators.

River Cávado basin is located in the north-western region of Portugal. This basin occupies an area of 1589 km2 and the river network considered in the model is about 360 km length corresponding to 16 rivers.

Figure 8 depicts the river basin and the modelled river network. The model includes the rivers Cávado and Homem and the following main tributaries: Beredo, Borralha, Cabreira, Cabril, Cavadas, Caveiro, Covo, Febras, Gerês, Milhazes, Pontes, Rabagão, Toco, and Tojal.

Fig. 8. River Cávado basin and modelled river network

The modelling system consists in mathematical models of the rivers network to simulate river water discharge flows and levels (hydrodynamics) and the transport of substances or

River Cávado basin is located in the north-western region of Portugal. This basin occupies an area of 1589 km2 and the river network considered in the model is about 360 km length

Figure 8 depicts the river basin and the modelled river network. The model includes the rivers Cávado and Homem and the following main tributaries: Beredo, Borralha, Cabreira, Cabril, Cavadas, Caveiro, Covo, Febras, Gerês, Milhazes, Pontes, Rabagão, Toco, and Tojal.

**Homem** 

**Cávado**

**Gerez**

**Toco**

**Cabril**

**Cabreira**

**Borralha**

**Cávado** 

**Rabagão** 

**Cavadas**

**Beredo**

Fig. 7. Monitoring data interface

properties that are used as water quality indicators.

**Cávado**

Fig. 8. River Cávado basin and modelled river network

**Febras**

**Tojal**

**Pontes**

**2.2.2 Modeling system** 

corresponding to 16 rivers.

**Milhazes**

**Caveiro Covo**

Cross sections of the river channels considered in the developed model were established using bathymetric and topographic data available for this river basin. The one-dimensional grid comprises 1722 computational nodes, 22 open boundaries, 51 controlled discharges at hydraulic structures and 105 non controlled hydraulic structures. The rivers channels geometry was introduced considering 1854 cross sections. Pollutant sources are simulated considering 84 different locations in the river basin. All hydraulic structures with a significant influence in the rivers flows regime were considered with emphasis for dams and hydropower generation plants.

A web interface to present model results and operate the model execution was developed. This tool interacts with the model installed on a remote server, and allows setting up and activating new simulations. The user has access to applications that permit change the hydraulic structures operational settings during simulations, define hydropower generation time scheduling, establish tributaries discharge flows under different scenarios and define pollutant concentrations and discharges.

Figures 9 and 10 shows the main view of the designed interface for hydrodynamic and water quality models, where several functionalities are available (graphic display of the river profile, plan view, tables and graphics results and animations). This interface allows either setting up the data needed to define new simulations and viewing the results of a selected simulation. The main window of the interface corresponds to the graphical display of the profile (Figure 10).

Each one of the included icons has one or more PHP modules associated responsible to produce the desirable output. As already mentioned, the developed interface allows both setting up the input data for new model simulations and presenting final results. To define

Fig. 9. Web interface for hydrodynamic models

Web-Based Decision Support Framework for

**2.2.3 Analysis system** 

Water Resources Management at River Basin Scale 55

The main purpose of this system is to simplify the analysis of complex water systems through presentation of synthesized model results and make available tools for evaluation of different management alternatives. The complexity of environmental systems is related to the uncertainty of the system behaviour caused by lack of essential information to describe natural phenomena and due to the simplifications adopted by mathematical models. This complexity is often intensified by the fact that, there are several actors with shared responsibility in solving the existing problems but usually these actors do not work together. In the design of the analysis system it was considered the integration of different scales involved in the water resources management problems in a simple and intuitive manner, allowing moving from basin scale to the scale of hydraulic structures within the same application. The analysis of management measures under various environmental scenarios, results in a set of simulations that can be stored by the manager of the developed platform.

These stored simulations can be analysed by different users of the modelling system.

quantitative analysis and the other more interested in qualitative analysis).

Fig. 12. Main interface of the analysis system

Through a specific interface (Figure 12) it is possible to manage (store, consult and remove) different simulations generated in the modelling system. This information is organized by rivers and the analysis is carried out through reports available online. Two separated applications were considered for system analysis: one dedicated to the exploration and analysis of results from hydrodynamic simulations and the second committed to the analysis and exploration of results of water quality. The design and features included in the two interfaces are identical, differing only in the type of results available. This division is justified by the expected use of two distinct groups of users (one group focused on

new simulations an intuitive application was developed as depicted in Figure 11. The user has to follow up the successive forms to define all the data involved in a simulation. New simulations are defined using default data associated with the selected one.

Fig. 10. Main functionalities of the hydrodynamic models web interface: profile view


Fig. 11. Main form for definition of new simulations data (left) and interface to define data time series related to hydraulic structures (right)

The script used by this interface is responsible for setting the starting date and duration of the simulations. The presented form allows the definition of the values of river flows at the most upstream open boundaries. It is possible to define a constant value for the entire simulation or a variable law over that period. The image of a dam (as well as images for other hydraulic structures) on the form gives access to a specific new form for setting the opening laws of the gates and orifices (Figure 11 right). Completed the previous steps, the user can execute the model with these new parameters, pressing the "Run" button, located at the bottom of the main window (Figure 9).
