This final part of the workshop will guide you through reviewing the results for two different simulations. Specifically, we will look at the advantages (or disadvantages) of our two different reservoir operation alternatives which will be identified in terms of the differences in the simulation results. First we will review the actual differences in the HEC-ResSim model alternatives. Next, we will review the HEC-RAS results, and last we will review the simulations using the HEC-FIA results.

Review HEC-ResSim Model Alternative Reservoir Operations

1. From the HEC-WAT main window, from the Study Tree, from the list of Models (expand the Models tree, if necessary) select ResSim.

2. From the Content Pane, from the list of ResSim model alternatives, right-click on RT-Normal2 and from the shortcut menu, click Edit Reservoirs.

  • The HEC-ResSim Reservoir Editor – Network Exercise editor opens.

Models Tree - ResSim Content Pane - RT-Normal2 Shortcut Menu

3. Select the Operations tab and from the Operation Set dropdown list select Normal Operations. Review the Zone-Rules tab for Normal Operations, and then select Baseline from the Operation Set list and review and compare the Zone-Rules tab for the two operation sets. (Note, it might be useful to take a screenshot of the Normal Operations to compare with Baseline.)

4. Repeat Step 3, for the Warm Springs reservoir (selected from the Reservoir list). Close the HEC-ResSim Reservoir Editor – Network Exercise editor, when finished reviewing the operation sets.

Question 1: What is the difference between the two operation sets?

The Normal Operations operation set is a step above Baseline as it includes downstream max and min rules for key locations downstream (e.g., Dry Creek Mouth, Guerneville, Hopland, Healdsburg, Dry Creek Confluence). The Top of Dam also includes the Emergency Release Schedule (for Coyote Dam) which is not included in the Baseline rules. 

Review HEC-RAS Results


Open the HEC-WAT map window and using an internet background map, identify some key cross-sections to compare the stage hydrograph for the two alternatives.  Which alternative results in a lower flood stage at each location examined?


This concludes the workshop, please save the HEC-WAT study and close all open windows.