Resource Allocation through Goal Programming

Abstract

One of the major weaknesses of using linear programming in natural resource management is that only a single criterion for determining the optimal strategy is allowed. A goal programming model is presented that allows for multiple, conflicting goals. Results are provided for a management area in northern Colorado. The trade offs between goals are demonstrated by comparison of results from multiple runs in which the order of goal preferences is varied. Goal programming is shown to be a very flexible decision aiding tool which can handle any decision problem formulated by linear programming more efficiently.