Synergetic Integration of SWAT and Multi-Objective Optimization Algorithms for Evaluating Efficiencies of Agricultural Best Management Practices to Improve Water Quality

Nitrate is one of the most complicated forms nitrogen found in aquatic surface systems, which results eutrophication water. During last few decades, due to agriculture and animal husbandry activities, as well urban development, a significant amount pollutants have accumulated Jajrood river northern Iran. In this research, we simulated nitrate load rural watershed assess outlet stream’s qualitative status evaluate influence best management practices (BMPs). To accomplish this, prepared, processed, integrated different datasets, including land-use land-cover (LULC) maps, physiographic layers, hydrological agricultural datasets. modeling section, Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used simulate over 28 years (1991–2019). Additionally, multi-objective optimization algorithm (MOPSO) implemented reduce intended objective functions, number concentration considering scenarios. The calibration basin’s discharge indicated that SWAT model performed simulating catchment’s streamflow (R2 = 0.71) 0.69). recommended BMPs for reducing nutrient from basin are using vegetated filter strips on banks fertilizer reduction activities. According investigation, demonstrates strong ability optimally determine type, size, location long criteria change. situation water scarcity, studies reported here could provide useful information policymakers planners define conservation policies strategies.