Abstract: A computer implemented method and system for simulating strategic planning and operations uses an operations control language (OCL) which has the characteristics of: (a) a target expression, (b) a condition expression, (c) an integer hierarchical priority level, (d) at least one penalty expression, and (e) a value expression. The OCL is a high level programming language for describing operating policies for simulation models, such as those used in water resources management. The OCL of the invention is written into a simple text file. The OCL has syntax, keywords and Boolean and arithmetic operators.