Comparison of different multicriteria evaluation methods for the Red Bluff diversion dam

A computer program was created to conduct a comparative study of five Multi-Criteria Evaluation Methods (MCEMs), each of which is capable of evaluating alternatives in a resource management setting. The MCEMs included Weighted Average (WA), Preference Ranking Organization METHod for Enrichment Evaluations (PROMETHEE II), Compromise Programming (CP), ELimination and Choice Translating REality (ELECTRE II). and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). In this study, each of the MCEMs is applied to an array of different management alternatives for andromodous fish migration through the Red Bluff Diversion Dam (RBDD) along the Sacramento River in California. Results are evaluated and MCEMs are ranked based on (1) the consistency of results, (2) the amount of interaction required by the user and (3) the degree of usability by technical and nontechnical professionals. It is concluded that WA is the method of choice when applied within the boundaries of the present study.