Eutrophication Simulation of Mahabad Dam Reservoir by Using CEQUAL‐W2 Two Dimensional Model

Eutrophication is one of the most important environmental problems of the enrichment in surface freshwater bodies due to organic compounds originating from agricultural activities and industrial effluents. Eutrophication causes the reduction of water quality in eutrophic lakes and reservoirs. The purpose of this study was two dimensional simulation of eutrophication in Mahabad Reservoir by using of CE-QUAL-W2 model. Eutrophication is a process that forms due to excessive accumulation of nutrients in the body of water in the reservoir or lake sediments. It can lead to the activity of microorganisms and be followed by the uncontrolled growth of aquatic plants [1]. One of the important studies on the use of CE-QUAL-W2 model in the reservoir can be mentioned by choi et al. [2]. They used this model for the investigation of possible impacts of enlarged water body according to dam reconstruction on the hydrodynamics and water quality of the reservoir. For calibration and validation of the model, field-collected data were compared with model predictions for water level fluctuations and water temperature and the model results showed a good agreement with field measurements. Demand for water is steadily increasing throughout the world. Water quality has become increasingly more important in reservoir management. Reservoir managers and the public have come to the realization that water quality affects other environmental interests, such as fish and wildlife, and can impact or impair water use. The Mahabad dam has great importance in the supply of drinking water in Mahabad city. Inthe present research, changes of water quality in this reservoir were studied and provide an appropriate model to simulation of eutrophication in Mahabad Reservoir.