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Watershed Planning within a Quantitative Scenario Analysis Framework
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Review of Watershed-Scale Water Quality and Nonpoint Source Pollution Models.
Lifeng Yuan1, Tadesse Sinshaw1, Kenneth J Forshay2
1National Research Council Resident Research Associate at the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research Center, 919 Kerr Research Drive, Ada, OK 74820, USA.
Geosciences
|September 28, 2020
Summary
Selecting the right watershed-scale nonpoint source pollution model is crucial for effective water quality management. This review assesses 14 models, detailing their strengths and limitations to guide users in choosing the best tool for their specific needs.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Resource Management
- Environmental Modeling
Background:
- Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution poses significant threats to water quality.
- Numerous watershed-scale NPS pollution models exist, varying in complexity and application.
- Selecting the appropriate model is challenging due to diverse model structures and computational demands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate 14 commonly used watershed-scale NPS pollution models.
- To clarify the appropriate application scenarios for each model based on their strengths and limitations.
- To provide guidance for watershed managers and planners in selecting suitable NPS models.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review and assessment of 14 watershed-scale NPS pollution models.
- Analysis of model characteristics including intended use, components, data requirements, spatial/temporal scales, and simulated pollutants.
- Evaluation of model strengths, limitations, and software availability.
Main Results:
- Models were categorized by complexity: simple screening tools, medium-complexity, complex simulation models, and integrated modeling systems.
- Detailed assessment criteria included intended use, land-use suitability, input parameters, and pollutant simulation.
- Understanding model-specific strengths and weaknesses is key to avoiding misapplication.
Conclusions:
- Informed model selection enhances the effectiveness of NPS pollution management strategies.
- Key selection criteria include spatial/temporal scale, calibration/validation needs, and uncertainty analysis.
- This review aids in reducing the detrimental impacts of NPS pollution on watershed ecosystems.
Keywords:
model selectionnonpoint source pollutionuncertainty analysiswater qualitywatershed modelingMore Related Videos
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