An agent-based platform for simulating complex human-aquifer interactions in managed groundwater systems

Authored by J C Castilla-Rho, G Mariethoz, R Rojas, M S Andersen, B F J Kelly

Date Published: 2015

DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2015.08.018

Sponsors: Chilean Government Gary Johnston fund

Platforms: NetLogo MATLAB

Model Documentation: Other Narrative Flow charts Mathematical description

Model Code URLs: https://www.comses.net/codebases/4338/releases/1.0.0/

Abstract

This paper presents and illustrates FlowLogo, an interactive modelling environment for developing coupled agent-based groundwater models (GW-ABMs). It allows users to simulate complex socio-environmental couplings in groundwater systems, and to explore how desirable patterns of groundwater and social development can emerge from agent behaviours and interactions. GW-ABMs can be developed using a single piece of software, addressing common issues around data transfer and model analyses that arise when linking ABMs to existing groundwater codes. FlowLogo is based on a 2D finite-difference solution of the governing groundwater flow equations and a set of procedures to represent the most common types of stresses and boundary conditions of regional aquifer flow. The platform is illustrated using a synthetic example of an expanding agricultural region that depends on groundwater for irrigation. The implementation and analysis of scenarios from this example highlight the possibility to: (i) deploy agents at multiple scales of decision-making (farmers, waterworks, institutions), (ii) model feedbacks between agent behaviours and groundwater dynamics, and (iii) perform sensitivity and multi-realisation analyses on social and physical factors. The FlowLogo interface allows interactively changing parameters using `tuneable' dials, which can adjust agent decisions and policy levers during simulations. This flexibility allows for live interaction with audiences (role-plays), in participatory workshops, public meetings, and as part of learning activities in classrooms. FlowLogo's interactive features and ease of use aim to facilitate the wider dissemination and independent validation of GW-ABMs. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Tags
models Genetic algorithm Land-use resources management Framework Monitoring design Conjunctive use Surface-water Game Part