Assessment of the impact of socio-economic policies on groundwater consumption using a multi-agent-based modeling approach

Abstract This study examines sustainable water management in the Eshtehard plain, Iran, addressing the impact of inappropriate groundwater use and the resulting decrease in groundwater levels. Using agent-based modeling, it evaluates stakeholder interactions to enhance groundwater management. This framework simulates farmers’ responses to changing water resources, considering agricultural demand and socio-economic factors. The study assesses the influence of governmental policies on farmers’ decisions across five scenarios, finding that implementing specific policies can reduce groundwater extraction and improve the hydrological–social situation, provided the government has necessary funding. The findings offer valuable insights for future planning, policy-making, and assessing the impact of management scenarios on water resources and farmers’ economic status. The proposed framework serves as a tool to support stakeholders in making informed decisions for sustainable groundwater management.