Ecosystems Research Division

LSPC is the Loading Simulation Program in C++, a watershed modeling system that includes streamlined Hydrologic Simulation Program Fortran (HSPF) algorithms for simulating hydrology, sediment, and general water quality on land as well as a simplified stream transport model. LSPC is derived from the Mining Data Analysis System (MDAS), which was developed by EPA Region 3 and has been widely used for mining applications and TMDLs. A key data management feature of this system is that it uses a Microsoft Access database to manage model data and weather text files for driving the simulation. The system also contains a module to assist in TMDL calculation and source allocations. For each model run, it automatically generates comprehensive text-file output by subwatershed for all land-layers, reaches, and simulated modules, which can be expressed on hourly or daily intervals. Output from LSPC has been linked to other model applications such as EFDC, WASP, and CE-QUAL-W2. LSPC has no inherent limitations in terms of modeling size or model operations. The Microsoft Visual C++ programming architecture allows for seamless integration with modern-day, widely available software such as Microsoft Access and Excel.

Key Considerations in the Design of LSPC

LSPC was designed to handle very large-scale watershed modeling applications. The model has been successfully used to model watershed systems composed of over 1,000 subwatersheds. Using the WCS extension increases the efficiency of model setup and execution by eliminating unnecessary, repetitive user-input, hence minimizes the chance of human error. The system is tailored for source representation and TMDL calculation. The highly adaptable design and programming architecture allows for future modular additions and/or improvements. Furthermore, the entire system is designed to simplify transfer of information between models and users. The LSPC GIS interface, which is compatible with ArcView shapefiles, acts as the control center for launching watershed model scenarios. This stand-alone interface easily communicates with both shapefiles and the Microsoft Access database, but does not directly rely on the main programs. Therefore, once a watershed application is created, it is easily transferable to users who may not have ArcView or MS Access installed on their computers.

LSPC Components

There are seven basic components of the LSPC system. They include: (1) a WCS extension for efficient model setup; (2) an interactive, stand-alone GIS control center; (3) data management tools; (4) data inventory tools; (5) data analysis tools; (6) a dynamic watershed model tailored for TMDL calculation; and (7) model results analysis.

Download LSPC (EXE)

Download LSPC Manual (ZIP)

LSPC Tool Information Sheet (PDF)
(PDF, 2 pp., 890 KB, about PDF)

 Technical Support Center fact sheet (2 pp., 733 KB, about PDF)

TMDL fact sheet (PDF, 2 pp., 697 KB, about PDF)