Hierarchical dynamic programming and applications in ecosystem management

In this contribution a methodological framework is proposed for an application of environmental models in optimum control theory. For this purpose environmental simulation models are analyzed with respect to their mathematical and numerical properties. Modeling environmental systems leads to mathematical heterogeneous equation systems. An application to optimum control theory requires therefore appropriate numerical procedures. Dynamic programming algorithms are used based on general dynamic systems. Numerical effort is decreased by making use of properties of environmental models. This is achieved by a hierarchical approach to the optimization problem. Generic code was developed that is applicable to a general dynamic system. Several case studies are presented, which demonstrate the developed toolbox in the context of environmental management of agricultural regions as well as an application in engineering.