Originally published on the South Florida Water Management District website.
Computer models are important and powerful tools used by scientists to monitor, evaluate, study, and protect South Florida’s precious water resources and ecosystems. Rooted in mathematics, physics and hydrology, these comprehensive models allow scientists to simulate complex systems and answer complex questions.
Did you know the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) uses state-of-the-art computer models and other analytical tools to help guide important water management decisions for the benefit of people and the environment of South Florida? Using comprehensive computer simulations, SFWMD scientists and engineers can study and test various conditions and scenarios to optimize operations throughout the District’s 16-county region.
The District uses computer modeling to:
- Monitor and evaluate groundwater aquifer systems.
- Evaluate water management operations.
- Simulate groundwater and surface water flow to guide planning.
- Provide near real-time spatial perspectives of water elevation, water depth, water elevation changes and more.
- Build consensus and better understand how the system works so that improved solutions can be developed.
- Augment physical models of the system.
- Identify ways to enhance water management infrastructure.
Scientific data provided by multiple computer models helps the SFWMD advance Everglades restoration projects, implement water quality improvements, enhance flood control, and meet the region's water needs.
Learn more about how computer models help safeguard and protect South Florida’s water resources and ecosystems.