Reservoir Sedimentation Economics Model (rsem)

The Reservoir Sedimentation Economics Model (RSEM) has been created to comparatively simulate a reservoir without and with sediment management. The model can be applied to new and existing reservoirs. Annual sedimentation is simulated within the reservoir and along the upstream channel. Coarse sediments (sand and gravel) are assumed to deposit in the reservoir, and along the upstream channel, as a delta. Fine sediments (clay and silt) are assumed to deposit along the reservoir bottom between the dam and delta. Annual channel degradation is simulated along the downstream channel.

The annual economic benefits and costs are comprehensively evaluated over centuries. Benefits include water storage for agricultural irrigation, municipal & industrial use, fish & wildlife; hydropower; and lake recreation. Costs include the planning, design, and construction of the dam; land acquisition of the reservoir; operation and maintenance; sediment management; upstream channel aggradation; downstream channel degradation; and dam decommissioning.

The user selects one of nine economic discounting approaches. Model results for alternatives without and with sediment management include benefit-cost ratios and net present value.