The California Department of Water Resources and US Bureau of Reclamation mid-pacific region with the help of CH2M (now Jacobs) developed a rapid, interactive screening model, named CalLite, for evaluating various Central Valley water management options in California. CalLite simulated water conditions in the valley over an 82-year planning period, taking into consideration reservoir operations and storage options and providing a basis for analysis of alternative water management strategies. The model simulated complex processes through the use of simple object relationships, incorporated Monte Carlo stochastic methods, and included dynamic, interactive user interfaces.

The model allowed interactive modification of a variety of water management actions including alternative conveyance options, off-stream storage reservoirs, groundwater management programs, demand management, and Delta channel flow and salinity targets. CalLite served as a key screening tool for proposed water management projects throughout California, and bridged the gap between more detailed system models and stakeholder demand for rapid and interactive policy evaluations.

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CalLite: California Central Valley Water Management Screening Model

CalLite Case Study