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The development of relational databases from which simulation models can access data needed to describe the systems being modeled is fundamental to integrated river basin management, especially in shared, transboundary basins. Creating a geographically referenced database, a geodatabase, for the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Basin represents the first major attempt to establish a more complete understanding of the basin as a whole, using both Mexican and United States geospatial and temporal water resources data. From the geodatabase, it is possible to obtain information about climatology, water availability, water uses, hydraulic infrastructure, and watershed properties in the basin. These data can be used in simulation models to calculate the state of basin water availability under different climatic and development scenarios and management plans in the future. This geodatabase is intended to be a tool to assist in sharing data to enhance binational cooperation between Mexico and the United States concerning water in this basin, providing accurate and reliable data necessary for analysis and resolution of water resources issues. DOI: 10.1061(ASCE)0733-9496(2007)133:5(416) CE Database subject headings: River basins; Texas; Water resources; Geographic information system; Databases; Water management.

The water planning and management policies of the Rio Grande basin no longer respond to the sustainable needs of water users, environment, and international commitments of this transboundary basin between Mexico and the United States. This paper describes how groundwater banking through an in lieu method is one approach leading to better water management in this basin. In lieu groundwater banking is a conjunctive water allocation policy applicable to water users supplied from surface water and groundwater sources. A basin simulation model of the Rio Grande basin, built in the water evaluation and planning system (WEAP) software, was used to evaluate the groundwater banking policy. Two scenarios are discussed: a baseline scenario without new water allocation policies implemented and a groundwater banking scenario considering the in lieu groundwater banking method implemented in the Meoqui aquifer. Results show that groundwater banking can significantly improve water management in the basin, increasing system storage, improving water supply for users in the basin, and enhancing compliance with the treaty obligations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]