murrumbidgee irrigation operation and planning system

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Operation and Planning System (MIOPS)

Leonie Williams Murrumbidgee Irrigation Ltd, Research Station Road, Hanwood, (NSW)

Email: [email protected]

Chris Smith Murrumbidgee Irrigation Ltd, Research Station Road, Hanwood, (NSW)


Jordi Ayats ADASA, Suite 5, level 13, 3 Spring Street CBD, Sydney (NSW)


Xavier Valls ADASA, Suite 5, level 13, 3 Spring Street CBD, Sydney (NSW)


Assoc. Prof. John Hornbuckle

Deakin University, Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Research Station Road, Hanwood, (NSW)


The objective of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Operation and Planning System (MIOPS) is to improve

the operation and planning of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation scheme. Murrumbidgee Irrigation Ltd (MI) is

one of the largest private irrigation companies in Australia with over 2,500 customers covering an area

of 660,000 ha of which an average of 120,000 ha is irrigated each irrigation season.

MIOPS is a Decision Support System (DSS) framework solution implemented by ADASA based on a

combination approach of leading edge software/technologies such as Delft-FEWS, WebFocus BI,

Aquarius, DHI-MIKE models and ADASA customized solutions and data from multiple platforms (i.e.

Rubicon® IPMG®, Technology One®, Rubicon® ScadaConnect®, Schneider® ScadaCITECT®,

NASA satellite images) and organisations such as Bureau of Metrology (BoM), Deakin University,

USGS and MI. Some of the benefits of MIOPS are: Improved decision making; Improved customer

service; Improved system efficiency and meeting compliance demands. This paper outlines

development of MIOPS and its benefits when implemented in an industry setting.

1. INTRODUCTION

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Ltd (MI) is one of the largest private irrigation companies in Australia serving

over 3,200 landholdings owned by over 2,500 customers. The irrigation water and drainage services

MI provides has helped create a diverse and highly productive agricultural region known as the

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA), which forms part of the Murray-Darling Basin and covers an area

of 660,000 ha (irrigated annual average of 120,000 ha). NSW State Water controls water released

from Burrinjuck and Blowering Dams into the Murrumbidgee River. MI is licensed by the NSW

Government to divert water from rivers and deliver it to MI‟s customers via a bulk water licensing

arrangement. Water is supplied by two main offtakes within the system: the Main Canal diverts 6,600

ML/day (via Narrandera Regulator) and the Sturt Canal (via the Sturt Regulator) 2,200 ML/day.

mailto:[email protected]

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Murrumbidgee Irrigation Operation and Planning System Ayats

HWRS 2015 Williams, Smith, Ayats, Valls, Hornbuckle 2 of 8

In order to provide the best possible service to Irrigators in the MIA, and to prepare for future changes

to water availability and irrigation requirements, MI has implemented tools to improve day to day

system and operational efficiency, as well as addressing short to medium term water and asset

planning requirements. The key outcomes will cover optimised water management, improvements to

service quality and increased delivery efficiency. Water utilities and irrigation companies worldwide

face increasing challenges to understand and preserve the hydraulic and water quality integrity of their

distribution networks. Under this framework, MI with the assistance of ADASA has implemented a

Decision Support System (DSS) to improve day to day operation and planning of the Murrumbidgee

Irrigation scheme (MIOPS).This has created a pressing need for the integration of supervisory control

and acquisition systems with network simulation models for proactive management of these networks

(Boulos et al, 2014).

MIOPS is a DSS framework solution implemented by ADASA based on a combined approach of

leading edge software/technologies such as Delft-FEWS, WebFocus BI (Figure 1), Aquarius, DHI-

MIKE models and ADASA customized solutions, data from multiple MI business platforms (i.e.

Rubicon® IPMG®, Technology One®, Rubicon® ScadaConnect®, Schneider® ScadaCITECT®,

NASA satellite images) and organizational technological developments, their inputs and automated

data from Bureau of Metrology (BoM), Deakin University, USGS and MI.

Figure 1 MIOPS dashboard homepage. A tailored interface for Business Intelligence.

2. MIOPS CONCEPT

2.1 Objectives

Hydraulic and water quality simulation models provide effective means for predicting network

behaviour of an irrigation water distribution system under an array of demand loading and operating

conditions (Boulos et al, 2014). MI‟s water delivery mechanisms are predominately operated via a

gravity based delivery system, which can present challenges in equitable water delivery during

tenuous operating circumstances- such as water shortages or spiked increases in demand during a

heatwave at the height of the irrigation season.

By using real-time network modelling, MI can progress from a reactive approach to a proactive

planned approach to water delivery. This creates opportunities in optimising delivery and improving

system efficiency when best water management is required to meet irrigation demands. Subsidiary to

this, various innovative practices, including the use of modelling tools, can also provide a gain in

economic advantage while creating water efficient practices that can potentially enhance the economic



viability and environmental sustainability of irrigated agriculture without necessarily reducing water

usage (Levidow et al, 2014).

MIOPS has been designed to respond to the functionalities of a complex delivery system that ranges

from manually operated structures; to remote desktop operation; and fully automated systems. The

key objective of MIOPS is to improve decision making by providing quick and easy access to data

from various sources, to gain better knowledge of the system using virtual real-time information with

forecasting models, which reduces business decisions for reactive operations based on limited data or

intuition. Improved system efficiency is achieved by anticipating events (e.g. rainfall, seasonal

cropping demands) and gain stronger understanding of these impacts (e.g. water order rejection from

rainfall). Better decisions on storage management, channel operation and in meeting fluctuations in

water demand can be then achieved through enhancing data quality and consistency with

hydrological and hydrodynamic water management systems.

Customer demand-driven irrigation systems require accessibility to real-time and/or simulated data to

reduce reactive decision making. Similarly, access to data improves customer services by providing

tools to assist with water trading and equitable water order scheduling to meet customer

expectations and internal compliance with company water policies.

2.2 Business requirements

A system conceptual design has been developed to provide the best available option and satisfy MI

needs based on optimum performance, reliability and a perfect fit for MI business requirements.

This is achieved by using the latest market solutions, confirmed trustworthiness on results and

meeting the expectations and needs of the user(s). A new user interface has been created to be

easily accessible and user friendly, especially considering the unexperienced user(s) and those

reluctant to using new technologies Quick wins such as the reuse of existing models and databases

that were already familiar to users have proved to be successful in developing MIOPS. Additionally,

both effective communication and planning a comprehensive user-oriented training program ensuring

engagement and enthusiasm of main stakeholders have been major milestones.

ADASA has designed MIOPS avoiding vendor lock-in, emphasizing that an Operational and

Planning Model is a support tool with a considerable lifespan that integrates new future modules and

software regardless of the vendor or any other third engineering companies.

A preliminary stage was done to collect, discuss and select functional requirements from prospective

users that should be included in MIOPS. The classification of these requirements, based on their

nature, was made to tackle them with the right perspective. Priority was then assigned to be more

adaptive to the client‟s convenience. General requirements, including avoiding vendor lock-in, user

friendliness, domain area (operation and planning) or maintaining a single source of data, were

identified during this stage. Highest priority within operational requirements was given to rainfall-runoff

simulation to enhance storage and capture opportunities, to hydraulic real-time basis simulation of the

irrigation scheme, to water balances analysis and to short-term forecasted water demands. Planning

requirements related to simulating the effects of upgrading the irrigation scheme were also identified.

After all requirements were identified an analytical phase was implemented to define the conceptual design of the system and to help with the decision of using any commercial and non-commercial software in developing the operation and planning system.

2.3 Conceptual design

MIOPS includes a DSS with add-on features such as a simplistic yet functional graphical user interface and the integration of different sources of data such as SCADA, web-based water orders or



meteorological data. MIOPS is also designed to provide pre and post data processing features including gap filling, data analysis with defined Key Performance Indicators and customised reporting possibilities.

A hydrological model was set for the whole MI area catchment to determine rainfall-runoff processes, including the calculation of soil moisture content in both surface and root zones, drain flow releases through account drainage inlets and evapotranspiration processes.

Hydraulic models simulating the routing through all main channels in the MI scheme were developed to assess the real-time operation and to analyse flow behaviour through supply and drainage channels. Supply models were fed using data available from water demand databases whereas drainage models used outputs from the hydrological models. Real-time hydrometric data was used where available to adjust model simulations on a real-time basis.

Raw data integration and analysis and the distribution of the resulting processed data between system components stand as one of the main complexities of MIOPS system. All data is received, processed, visualised, and distributed to different databases or tools. Meteorological data from MI weather stations and from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology is received and used as inputs for the hydrological model as well as crop coefficient raster datasets that are also processed to provide values for evapotranspiration(https://irrisat-cloud.appspot.com/#). Hydraulic models contain data integrated from EasyWater, a web-based application for submitting water orders. Monitoring points along the scheme are also integrated to provide relevant real-time data in terms of flows, levels, and gate operation rules.

MIOPS contains on-demand tools that have been developed and designed according to specific requirements from MI business needs. These tools which are not commercially present on the market have been programmed exclusively to meet strategic operational purposes.

Integrated data is stored in a hydrological and hydrometric database to provide a source of ground truthing for MI hydrological data. This database contributes as an appropriate long term, permanent storage system that can aggregate and generate new information. Data validation and gap filling is also needed to increase robustness of the received data.

Following the unique source of truth principle for centralised data storage, a Business Intelligence tool (MI IQ) has been developed to display operational data and distribute it throughout the organisation in a centralised environment using a web portal. Published data can be customised based on user profile and addresses an array of Key Performance Indicators, including forecasting, water delivery, system status and customer orders.

3. MIOPS DEVELOPMENT

3.1 Solution design

The main premise for the development of MIOPS software packages were based on the

aforementioned conceptual design. FEWS, an open data handling platform, was selected as the best

commercial solution for DSS due to its ability to integrate hydraulic and hydrological models and

customised tools, for its intuitive spatially geographic interface, and for its capacity to fulfil essential

DSS requirements.

Hydrological and hydraulic models were developed using the MIKE commercial software and chosen

for its performance capabilities and coupling opportunities between both models. A similar approach

and software decision was made in the Computer Aided River Management (CARM) model, which

suggests future compatibility options between both projects in relation to the Murrumbidgee River

Catchment and water delivery operations between Water NSW and MI.

Considering the large amount of data displayed in FEWS, and the numerous sources of data to be

integrated, the decision to incorporate a database for hydrological and hydrometric purposes became

https://irrisat-cloud.appspot.com/



natural in order to provide a source of truth to the operation and planning system. Aquarius software

was specifically created to give this solution to the market, and which fully fulfils MIOPS requirements

and exceeds capabilities in pre and post processing of data.

Other functional requirements were needed where commercial software did not have an available

solution. In these cases, specific tools were designed and programmed using the built-in capabilities of

the DSS to incorporate, run and visualize results from external tools. This customised software

includes a Delivery Entitlement Tool which analyses the viability to trade Delivery Entitlements

between accounts and assesses the level of service based on Flow Rate Share and restrictions based

on system capacity. It also includes an Operation Scheduling Tool which proposes an optimised and

equitable water distribution based on availability and delivery entitlements. The Water Demand

Forecast Tool provides MI with an estimation of bulk customer water demand, which is required by

Water NSW to manage the flows within the Murrumbidgee River system. For this estimation, results of

the hydrological model are analysed in terms of field moisture to forecast future orders in a 7 day

anticipation window against scheduled orders. Finally, an Irrigation Scheme Modification Tool was

designed to input changes to the supply and infrastructure network and to assess their impact. This

can be used to scope rationalisation or expansion projects to a specific system. A Business

Intelligence system can analyse current and historical data to track compliance and monitor the

performance of the companies KPI‟s to improve decision making. This Business Intelligence system is

powered by WebFocus products using dashboard capabilities, report scheduling, distribution and

storage of water operational data. These functions are displayed in a web-based environment which

will enhance user group experience and provide accessibility to MI staff, executive management,

board, and eventually, to some degree, customers and shareholders.

Figure 2 shows the conceptual model of MIOPS with sub system linkages.

Figure 2 MIOPS Solution design

3.2 Data integration

Data from different sources (Figure 3) is read, parsed and ingested to feed all MIOPS components

after an extensive consolidation and validation work. Data formats include, HTML, CSV, XLSX, JSON,

DBF, NetCDF and GeoTIFF.



Figure 3 Data integration sources

3.3 System architecture

Figure 4 represents the complexity of MIOPS due to the crossed relationship between components.

The central piece of DSS physical architecture (Figure 5) is FEWS, which intrinsically controls different

components including a Forecast Shell with software adaptors to integrate all data, an SQL server

supporting database features and a Master Controller that gives service for example to graphic user

interfaces. All these functionalities fully respond to the requirements expected from MIOPS.

Figure 4 Main system architecture

Figure 5 DSS architecture

INTERNAL SYSTEMS (ERP, SPM, Asset Mgmt...)

River diversion Water allocation

Delivery Entitlements Land holdings

MONITORING NETWORK

Weather data Gauging station data Groundwater level

Water quality

BOM

Weather data Rainfall forecast grid

SCADA (CITECT, RUBICON, WONDERWARE...)

Water levels Flow

DEPI

Gauging station data Groundwater data

IPM/SPM

Water orders Running sheets

CSIRO

Weather data Kc grid

ETc forecast



Aquarius architecture (Figure 6) is designed as a „source of truth‟ (database) that is managed by an

administration console which allows customisation of workflows for integration of hydrometric data.

Figure 6 Database architecture

Business Intelligence (MI IQ) architecture is shown by Figure 7. A data warehouse and repository

database work as the primary source that feeds a WebFocus server acting as the core processing

engine of MI IQ. The visual component of this tool is achieved through a WebFocus portal with

personalised access to data sources and reporting functions.

Figure 7 Business Intelligence architecture

4. MIOPS FUNCTIONAL BENEFITS

The benefits of MIOPS have yet to be fully realized as MI is currently implementing the system into day to day operations and business planning. To date, the following uses and benefits are:

Operational Goals. In addition to minimizing water and operational losses, MIOPS assists with the

development of operational goals to maximize water distribution and order scheduling at a property,

channel, division and global level. Retrieving past scenarios and assessing the impacts of different

distribution possibilities may improve water delivery methodologies.

Planning Goals. MIOPS provides essential information for asset planning and long-term demand

forecasting. The Scheme Modification tool takes a “snapshot” of the MI delivery system and tests

options for the viability of asset replacement, modernization, automation and rationalization projects

and their impacts on the scheme. This improves decision making in long-term capital investment.

Demand Forecasting. Integration with the IrriSAT Crop Demand Forecasting Model (Hornbuckle et

al. 2009), BOM and MI weather and real-time water data and IPMG2 (real-time data and customer

orders), MIOPS aids in forecasting crop water demand requirements at a channel, division, district and

global level. There is now additional capability to improve the 6-7 day water ordering forecast reported

to Water NSW by anticipating crop water needs based on previous patterns, current and predicted

rainfall and evaporation coupled with water orders. This optimises diversions and reuse of miss-match

in orders (orders minus water taken) and in rescheduling conflicting orders for shortage in provisions.

Water Administration. The DE Assessment tool evaluates the impacts of internal trading of Delivery

Entitlements and Flow Rate Share apportionment in line with the company‟s water contracts and

policies. This tool, coupled with current and historical operating data provided by MIOPS and MI IQ, is

also used in the planning and maintenance of asset use against revenue and levels of service.



Water and Environmental Compliance. MIOPS provides tools for metering and water compliance in

line with the company‟s contracts, policies, operating and environmental licenses, by using real-time

data. Future additions will assist with reducing the burden of field compliance and resourcing.

Water Storage and Management. The models and real-time data provide the ability to maximize

water diversions, water storage, capture and reuse, as well as the intelligence to optimize secondary

water from miss-match of orders and catchment and drainage runoff.

Water Balances. Provides water balances to division, supply and system levels, and the ability to

target areas for investigating water loss categories such as seepage, non-compliance and operational.

Improvements in Knowledge. Transparency and access to data in near real time has improved

operational and planning knowledge associated with water delivery, water scheduling and ordering,

and water delivery infrastructure and maintenance. Operational and Planning staff are using this tool

for asset utilization measurement, metering investigations, maintenance planning, schedule

optimization, automation and capital works business planning and review. MI IQ is also used to assess

historical trends in-line with comparative operational years to improve current decision making.

Supporting Business Growth. MIOPS associated with SCADA Citect, SCADA Connect, MI IQ

provide a platform for visualising and analysing the success of automation and modernization projects

currently implemented by MI. These systems are pivotal in providing critical data and knowledge for

capital planning and investment, as well as assisting with target business improvement and growth.

5. FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

To date, MIOPS has provided the necessary tools and information for the implementation of water

related projects such as the Private Irrigation Infrastructure Operators Program for NSW (PIIOP)

Modernisation Projects and the Automation Strategy. MI is also exploring opportunities to provide

inputs from MIOPS to customers that could be valuable in their day to day business needs.

MIOPS is conceived to allow more sources of data to be digested into the system, making it a growing

resource for the company. Newer developments and updates are also being introduced, such as the

inclusion of water quality measurements or ground water parameters. In the upcoming 12 months, MI

and ADASA will be fine-tuning and testing existing functionalities and ensuring confidence in the data

used through calibration and field verification. There is also additional work required to ensure the

longevity and use of the tool in day to day operations. MI envisages that, as this system matures, the

efficiency of operations and the benefits of forward planning (and its accuracy) will promote an efficient

delivery to its customers no matter the operational hurdle presented.

6. REFERENCES

Boulos, P.F., Jacobsen, L.B., Heath, J.E. and Kamojjala S. (2014), Real-time modeling of water

distribution systems: A case Study, Journal AWWA, American Water Works Association, September

2014 Edition, 106:9.

Hornbuckle, J.W., Car, N.J., Christen, E.W., Stein, T-M. and Williamson, B. (2009), IrriSATSMS –

Irrigation water management by satellite and SMS. A utilisation framework, CRC for Irrigation Futures

Technical Report N. 01/09. http://www.irrigateway.net/publications/irrisatsms_v_60_finalwappendix.pdf

Levidow, L., Zaccatia, D., Maia, R., Vival, E. and Todorovic, M. (2014), Improving water-efficient

irrigation: Prospects and difficulties of innovative practices, Journal of Agricultural Water Management

146 (2014), 4-94.

http://www.irrigateway.net/publications/irrisatsms_v_60_finalwappendix.pdf