1.   Purpose and objectives

     The program is designed to simulate the operation of reservoirs in a river system for multiple purposes: flood control, water supply, hydropower, and water quality. The program can be used to evaluate existing and proposed systems using defined flow sequences.

2.   Description

     Any combination of intervals can be used throughout a discharge sequence to best define the essence of the modelled operation. Automatic determination of yield or conservation storage can be made for up to nine independent reservoirs. Hydropower operation can be simulated with individual project or system energy requirements. Pump-storage can also be simulated. The HEC-5Q complement to HEC-5 simulates water quality in the system.

3.   Input

     Card image input is used. Time-series data may be input using the HEC-DSS Data Storage System software. Basic data includes job specification, reservoir starting storage and storage vs. maximum outflow function, and locations where a reservoir operates for specified requirements and constraints. Routing criteria link reservoir and control points and local flow data are required for all locations in the system. Optional data can be provided defining reservoir area and elevations, power capability, minimum flow requirements, diversions, and flood constraints.

4.   Output

     Graphical and tabular outputs are available. The program is actually two programs run in series. The first program reads the input data, operates the system, and generates an intermediate file. The second reads the intermediate file, and displays the output. The HEC-DSS software may also be used to view simulation results.

5.   Operational requirements and restrictions

     a.  Persons with knowledge and experience in reservoir operations and 
         a basic understanding of computers can run the program.

     b.  One week of training would be desirable.

     c.  The program was written for use on Windows PC’s but may be used 
         with minor modifications on other high-speed computers. The
         program is written in FORTRAN. 

     d.  The program is dimensioned for numerous control points, 
         reservoirs, power plants, diversions. Any number of time periods
         can be used with the program.  

     e.  Program limitations: (1) many options make the program 
         complicated for untrained users; (2) optimization option is
         limited to firm yield operation.

6.   Form of presentation

     Program on CD or download from www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil Support documentation consisting of Users and Programmers Manuals and Training Documents. Instructional videotapes are also available.

7.   Operational experience

     Worldwide use since 1979.

8.   Originator and technical support

     The Hydrologic Engineering Center, HEC, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

9.   Availability

     From the HOMS National Reference Centre for USA. Or download from Internet at
www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil 

10.  Conditions on use

     A standard handling fee is charged for the CD and documentation.  Download is free.