AWWA WQTC71401

The purpose of this paper was to show how optimizing the use of multiple source waters can reduce natural organic matter (NOM) and disinfection byproduct (DBP) levels. The New York City water supply is presented as a case study. Data from an ongoing reservoir sampling program was used in conjunction with the New York City OASIS model to evaluate the potential reduction in DBP precursors that could be achieved by optimizing reservoir operations. For this evaluation, the NYC OASIS model was programmed to represent current operations of the NYC reservoir system and was used to evaluate alternative reservoir withdrawal patterns. Time series data of predicted Kensico DOC and the resulting percent reduction for each modified operations scenario relative to the baseline for a 20-yr portion (1983-2003) of the simulation period demonstrate that in some years, modified operations result in substantial reductions in predicted DOC (nearly 10%), while in other years minimal or no reductions are observed. Includes figures.