An empirical model of water quality for use in rapid management strategy evaluation in Southeast Queensland, Australia

► Empirical models are a useful alternative to process models for management strategy evaluation. ► They are much faster than process models, running in seconds rather than hours or days. ► We built a model from a 10-year data base of water quality monitoring in SE Queensland. ► The model simulates realistic downstream responses to management actions in very short run times. ► The model enables rapid evaluation of management strategies while incorporating uncertainty.