RIOS (Resource Investment Optimization Service)

Purpose:	Identifying cost-effective investments in watershed services
Developer:	Natural Capital Project, The Nature Conservancy, Latin America Water Funds Platform
Key Features:	Python based
Latest Release:	2015, Version 1.1.16
OS Platform:	Windows
Cost:	Free
Related Software:
Website:	RIOS home page

Introduction

The RIOS model, first released in 2002, supports the design of cost-effective investments in watershed services. The RIOS model integrates biophysical, social, and economic data to help users identify the best locations for protection and restoration activities. The model maximizes ecological returns on investments, taking into account social and political feasibility. The RIOS model includes both an Investment Portfolio Advisor and a Portfolio Translator. The Investment Portfolio Advisor uses biophysical and social data along with budget information and implementation costs to generate a list of activities that would provide the best return on all water fund objectives. The Portfolio Translator uses Investment Portfolio Advisor results to generate scenarios for future conditions. Potential applications of the RIOS model include erosion control for water reservoirs, nutrient retention, flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity.

Key features of the RIOS model include the ability to generate maps of watershed investments, and incorporating social and political feasibility considerations. The program is coupled with the InVEST Model.

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages	Limitations
Prioritizes investments in watershed services Generates maps of investment activity Courses are available via vendor Program can be coupled with the InVEST model	Model is a simplification of reality Does not include interest or discount rates for multi-year projects
Illustrative Screens

Sample Applications

Africa	East Asia and the Pacific	Europe & Central Asia	Latin America & the Caribbean	Middle East and North Africa	South Asia