Dynamic Simulation of Ecological Flow Based on the Variable Interval Analysis Method
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
I have reviwed the paper. In this paper, the authors give a new concept of ecological flow and they propose a new calculation calculation -VIAM for ecological flow calculation-.
The new calculation determines the ecological flow through ecological base flow and lifting amount, which solves the problem of unclear concept and difficult quantification of ecological flow, and makes the calculation results of ecological flow more scientific and reasonable.
By this method, the lifting amount can be described by a variable interval, which determines that ecological flow is also a variable interval, with strong applicability and operability.
By this method, the simulation system can quickly adapt to the changes in the practical application. The different spatial-temporal scales, different hydrological conditions, different service objects, different calculation methods can be adjusted by the visual human-machine interface. The system provides a visualization tool for the calculation of ecological flow and offers decision support for managers.
Some notes:
1. There is a parenthesis in Eq 10, it should be removed.
2. Certain informatios for Figure 4 and Figure 5 is given. Please interpret (shortly) Figure 4 and the Tables in Figure 5.
3. Please interpret (shortly) Figure 6.
Based on my expertise area, I can say that the proposed calculations are correct.
Author Response
Please see the attachment.
Author Response File: 
Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 2 Report
- The abstract should be more informative including some numerical results.
- What do you mean by the term "happy rivers"?
- What are the differences between the "ecological", "environmental", and "eco-environmental" terms?
- It is preferred to add a table containing the advantages and disadvantages of the previous calculation methods.
- Please explain all abbreviations used in the text.
- Please cite the references of all equations listed in the text.
- Did you compare your results with other methods and other previous studies?
Author Response
Please see the attachment.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 3 Report
1. Modeling of hydrological processes includes modeling the processes of flooding and flooding of the territory, the dynamics of groundwater, the assessment of the intensity of soil erosion, and the quality of surface water. It is not clear from the article whether you took into account these parameters?
2. Formulas (6), (8) – (11) are made carelessly, not according to requirements.
Author Response
Please see the attachment.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 4 Report
Currently the one of the most important principles related to protection of water resources is to ensure optimal living conditions for aquatic organisms. So the ecological flow is very important so calculate properly. This fact has best been reflected in many national legal acts. The presented paper includes novelty (original new concept VIAM), is prepared properly, clearly and could be the good example of scientific research. Some minor editing mistakes are shown in the attachment. In my opinion the paper could be published as it is but I suggest to expand the paper of impact of the choice of method for calculating the environmental flow to the water volume left for the investments (e. g. hydropower plants, intakes etc.). The economical point of view is also important. Calculating the EF should guarantee the best water condition for organisms but it should'n block the investements.
Comments for author File: Comments.pdf
Author Response
Please see the attachment.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
