Supporting well-informed decision and policy making through hydrological data analysis and modelling: the case of the Karkheh Basin, Iran

This paper shows how hydrological analysis and modelling can help guide water policy in the Karkheh Basin, Iran. The study suggests that water development strategy should take into account the high variability of the water resources, including declining low flows and intensification of floods in different parts of the basin. The modelling results suggest the promotion of soil and water conservation interventions due to their minimal impact on downstream flows. Conversion of rain-fed areas to irrigation may cause severe reduction in monthly flows. Therefore, only partial development is recommended, about 0.1 million ha out of a potential 0.5 million ha.