Elevation Dependent Management of the Edwards Aquifer: Linked Mathematical and Dynamic Programming Approach

The dynamic issue of optimum pumping and optimum target ending aquifer elevation is addressed. A stochastic dynamic programming (DP) approach is used to address the optimal elevation questions. The analytical approach relies on the generation of stochastic state transition information from a stochastic nonlinear, static programming model of the aquifer. The elevation and spring flow increases are made possible by reductions in water use by all pumping parties. Methodologically, the model linkage allows handling number of potential state variable by collapsing them into a simple ending elevation state variable in the DP. A substantial amount of welfare must be gained from species preservation and/or downstream interests to have the limits justified from a potential compensation test viewpoint.