Aquatic numerical modelling - A management tool regarding dispersion and decay of pollutants

Numerical models are valuable tools in water quality management. The paper provides an introduction to the application of numerical models in aquatic environmental management. The introduction takes it offset in the needs of management tools and the basic mass balance of a suspended/dissolved substance. The questions of when and how to benefit from numerical models are discussed. Four cases are used to illustrate the span in present application of numerical models in aquatic environmental management. The paper also addresses the future challenges for development of models.