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Overview
The interdisciplinary nature and increasing complexity of environmental
and water-resource problems require the use of modeling approaches that
can incorporate knowledge from a broad range of scientific disciplines.
Selection of a model to address these problems is difficult given the
large number of available models and the potentially wide range of
applications, data constraints, and spatial and temporal scales of
application. Coupled with these issues are the problems of study area
characterization and parameterization after a model is selected.
Guidelines for parameter estimation are sparse, and the user commonly
has to make decisions based on an incomplete understanding of the
relation between parameter values and physical measures of watershed
characteristics. The U.S. Geological Survey is currently addressing
these issues by developing a watershed modeling framework that promotes
models that are problem- and-scale specific and that provides a
capability to evaluate alternative modeling and parameter estimation
approaches.
Conceptually, the framework is an integrated system of computer software
designed to provide the modeling tools needed to support a broad range
of model applications and model user skills. The framework supports the
(1) application and analysis of existing models, (2) modification and
enhancement of existing models for problem-specific applications, and
(3) research, devleopment, testing, and application of new models. The
framework uses a module library that contains modules for simulating a
variety of physical processes. A model is created by selectively
coupling appropriate modules from the library to create a suitable model
for a desired application. When existing modules do not provide
appropriate process algorithms, new modules can be developed.
A wide range of pre-processing and post-processing capabilities and
model optimization and sensitivity analysis tools are also major
components of a watershed modeling framework. Pre-processing
capabilities include a range of data management and analysis tools and
geographic information system (GIS) tools to provide watershed
delineation, characterization, and parameterization capabilities. Post-
processing tools include graphical and statistical analysis tools for
use in analyzing and interpreting results.
Continued advances in the physical and biological sciences, GIS
technology, computer technology, and data resources will increase the
need for a set of dynamic tools capable of providing a simple interface
between research and operational applications. A watershed modeling
framework provides a flexible mechanism for integrating scientific and
technological capabilities with resource planning and management
requirements.
OSW Memos
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SW 96.09 Geographical
Reference Data for Modeling and Management Applications
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SW 84.03 Watershed
Simulation Models
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Training
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SW2008TC
Watershed Systems Modeling I
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SW3018TC
Watershed Systems Modeling II
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Software
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Weasel The GIS Weasel
(PRMS and TOPMODEL interface)
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HSPF Hydrological
Simulation Program--Fortran
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PRMS Precipitation-Runoff
Modeling System
- Projects
- Watershed Processes and Modeling
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References
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Bicknell, B.R., Imhoff, J.C., Kittle, J.L., Jr., Donigian, A.S., Jr., and
Johanson, R.C., 1997, Hydrological Simulation Program--Fortran, User's
manual for version 11: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Exposure
Research Laboratory, Athens, Ga., EPA/600/R-97/080, 755 p.
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Leavesley, G.H., Lichty, R.W., Troutman, B.M., and Saindon, L.G., 1983,
Precipitation-Runoff Modeling System: User's Manual: U.S. Geological Survey
Water-Resources Investigations 83-4238, 207 p.
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Leavesley, G.H., Restrepo, P.J., Markstrom, S.L., Dixon, M., and Stannard,
L.G., 1996, The Modular Modeling System (MMS): User's Manual: U.S. Geological
Survey Open-File Report 96-151.
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Leavesley, G.H., Markstrom, S.L., Brewer, M.S., and Viger, R.J., 1996,
The modular modeling system (MMS) -- the physical process modeling component
of a database-centered decision support system for water and power management:
Water, Air and Soil Pollution, v. 90, p. 303-311.
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Viger, R.J., Marksrom, S.L, and Leavesley, G.H., 1998, The GIS weasel-an
interface for the treatement of spatial information used in watershed modeling
and water resources management: First Federal Interagency Hydrologic Modeling
Conference, Las Vegas, April, 1998.
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Wolock, D. M., 1993, Simulating the variable-source-area concept of watershed
hydrology with TOPMODEL: USGS Water-Resources Investigation Report 93-4124.
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Other Links
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SMIG Surface-water quality
and flow Modeling Interest Group
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TOPMODEL
Keith Beven's web pages
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USGS Water
Resources Applications Software
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WaRSMP Watershed
and River System Management Program
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WMS Watershed Modeling
System
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