Obtaining natural-like flow releases in diverted river reaches from simple riparian benefit economic models

We propose a theoretical river modeling framework for generating variable flow patterns in diverted-streams (i.e., no reservoir). Using a simple economic model and the principle of equal marginal utility in an inverse fashion we first quantify the benefit of the water that goes to the environment in relation to that of the anthropic activity. Then, we obtain exact expressions for optimal water allocation rules between the two competing uses, as well as the related statistical distributions. These rules are applied using both synthetic and observed streamflow data, to demonstrate that this approach may be useful in 1) generating more natural flow patterns in the river reach downstream of the diversion, thus reducing the ecodeficit; 2) obtaining a more enlightened economic interpretation of Minimum Flow Release (MFR) strategies, and; 3) comparing the long-term costs and benefits of variable versus MFR policies and showing the greater ecological sustainability of this new approach.

► Sustainable flow releases in diverted rivers should mimic the natural flow regime.
► An economic model that considers the riparian environment as a non-traditional use is developed.
► Natural-like flow regimes and related distribution functions are analytically derived.
► This method envisions preservation rather than restoration as a more sustainable measure.