LINEAR PROGRAMS FOR NONLINEAR HYDROLOGIC ESTIMATION1

ABSTRACT: The minimization of the sum of absolute deviations and the minimization of the absolute maximum deviation (mini-max) were transformed into equivalent linear programs for the estimation of parameters in a transient and linear hydrologic system. It is demonstrated that these two methods yield viable parameter estimates that are globally optimal and reproduce properly the timing and magnitude of hydrologic events and associated variables such as total runoff. The two linear estimation methods compared favorably with the popular least-squares nonlinear estimation method. The generality of the theoretical developments shows that linear program equivalents are adequate competitors of nonlinear methods of hydrologic estimation and parameter calibration.