RiverWare Output and Results Visualization Using Power BI Tools

The UCRAF RiverWare models simulate in Baseline mode (normal consumptive use) and Change Case mode (modified consumptive use) to quantify conserved water. When a Change Case scenario is simulated with a UCRAF RiverWare model, the resulting output is consolidated and exported in a consistent manner across all UCRAF RiverWare models. This output can then be visualized in a consistent manner in the Model Output Viewer, a Power BI tool.

Model Output Viewer Data

Data used in the Model Output Viewer Power BI dashboard is sourced directly from output Data Management Interfaces (DMIs) configured within each UCRAF RiverWare model. These DMIs are linked to three specific data objects, objects that do not simulate and merely house scalar, time series, tabular, or periodic data, that have been set up to capture the most relevant outputs from Change Case simulations. Each of these objects plays a distinct role in providing a comprehensive picture of how a given scenario affects water distribution and availability across the basin.

RiverWare Data Objects for Output Data

DRC_OutputVisualization_ChangeCase

This data object is responsible for calculating the difference in diversions between the Baseline Case and the current Change Case for each agricultural user in the basin. The differences represent the volume of water conserved due to the implemented change. These estimates are calculated using the Diversion Runoff Calculator (DRC). This object is crucial for identifying which users reduce their water usage and by how much forming the basis of the conserved water analysis.

RW_OutputVisualization_Baseline

This data object holds information that reflects the original state of the basin before any Change Case scenario is introduced. It stores physical diversions for agricultural users and observed gage flows. These values are recorded after the model has solved the Baseline condition and provide a point of comparison to understand the impact of changes applied in a Change Case scenario.

RW_OutputVisualization_ChangeCase

This data object captures the system-wide results after a Change Case has been implemented and solved. It includes conserved water (represented as return flows in the model) for each agricultural user, distinguishing between conserved water originating from System (river flows) and Project (reservoir) water. These values help characterize the source and composition of conserved volumes. Additionally, this object stores updated gage flows reflecting conditions for the Change Case.

Model Output Viewer Pages

Simulated Differences at Gages

This page provides an interface for users to evaluate how changes affect flows at specific gages. By selecting a Basin, a Change Case (Scenario) run, and a Gage location (via the map), the dashboard dynamically updates to display monthly and annual box plots of Conserved Water at the selected gage. These plots enable users to assess variability and seasonal patterns in conserved volumes offering insights into the hydrologic impact of different conservation scenarios.

Simulated Differences at Diversions

This page functions similarly to the Simulated Differences at Gages page but focuses on diversions rather than flows. Users select a specific diversion (via the map), along with the relevant Basin and Change Case (Scenario) run. The dashboard then displays a set of plots showing the composition of Conserved Water by source (System or Natural, Project, and Losses) in three panels, followed by a fourth panel that aggregates the total Conserved Water volume. This view helps identify the type of water that is being conserved in the selected Change Case.

Simulated Differences at Gages Year Comp

This page is designed to provide comparisons of simulated calendar year results at selected gages. Users can choose a Basin, Change Case (Scenario) run, gage (via the map), and individual years of interest. The plots then display monthly and annual conserved volumes for each selected year, enabling analysis of different conditions' (such as hydrology) influence on results.

Simulated Differences at Diversions Year Comp

This page parallels the Simulated Differences at Gages Year Comp page but focuses on diversion locations. After selecting a Basin, Change Case (Scenario) run, diversion, and specific years, the dashboard displays a series of plots that break down the composition of Conserved Water for each year selected. This includes the volume sourced from different water types as well as the aggregate volume. As on the Simulated Differences at Gages Year Comp page, the plots display monthly and annual conserved volumes for each selected year.

Scenario Comparison at Gages

This page enables side-by-side comparison of multiple Change Case scenarios at a selected gage. Users can choose a Basin, one or more Change Case (Scenario) runs, and a gage location. The dashboard then displays box plots and statistical summaries (mean, median, minimum, and maximum) of annual Conserved Water volumes allowing identification of scenarios that produce the most or least water conservation.

Scenario Comparison at Diversions

This page extends the scenario comparison capability provided on the Scenario Comparison at Gages page to diversion points. After selecting a Basin, multiple Change Case (Scenario) runs, and a diversion, the dashboard displays comparative box plots showing annual Conserved Water volumes and their respective water type sources. Summary tables provide supporting statistics allowing users evaluate which scenarios result in the most or least water conservation.

Model Output Viewer Data Refresh

To update the Model Output Viewer dashboard with new Change Case simulations, users must re-run the appropriate output DMI within the RiverWare model. This action exports updated data from the three key RiverWare data objects to a folder that houses data for Power BI. Once this export process is complete, users can refresh the Power BI dashboard or specific tables to incorporate the new data. The file structure and data query process allow the user to quickly and efficiently analyze results and compare updated Change Cases.

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