AWWA CSC92065

Effective planning for efficient use of water resources calls for sophisticated computer-aided planning tools. The Institute for Water Resources Municipal and Industrial Needs (IWR-MAIN) System is one such tool. IWR-MAIN is a seasonally and sectorally disaggregate model that can prepare water demand forecasts for residential, nonresidential, and public/other water use sectors. Additionally, water savings from conservation program implementation and their associated costs can be assessed through employing the conservation effectiveness and benefit- cost modules. Furthermore, drought planning can be accomplished through the evaluation of long-term and short-term demand-side and supply-side alternatives. IWR-MAIN Version 5.1 is currently undergoing a number of improvements in design. The modular approach employed in the new design will result in a more efficient, modular, and extensible product that more readily accepts system modification. Reclassification of the residential and nonresidential subsectors will provide more clarity and will enhance ease of use when performing data gathering and entry. The knowledge base employed in the residential and nonresidential sectors integrates the results of nearly 20 years of data gathering and analysis. Conservation analysis is more explicit and much easier for the typical user (at the expense of slightly increased data requirements). Additional postprocessing units are available for examining the economic benefits of conservation implementation; performing drought analysis; aggregating and comparing multiple file runs; exporting data to other systems; report writing and viewing; and graphic display of data and results.