The CX5461 next generation of runoff prediction tools could move away from the lumped approach and distribute runoff over the landscape on a daily basis; however, if the end goal is a web-based mapping tool, this will require addressing the challenges of higher computer processing power and daily creation of unique map layers. The empirical relationships developed here for the two variable model storm runoff parameters (Sd, Tp) appear to be regionally generalizable within the context of rural watersheds. We suggest this model as a potential tool for predicting flows in ungauged watersheds in the northeastern US. A beta website using the methodology described here is available for the Owasso

Lake Watershed in upstate NY ( Cornell Soil and Water Lab, 2013). This study developed and applied a parsimonious semi-distributed hydrologic model (Lumped VSA model) across a variety of watersheds and field sites. The model performed well over multiple scales of validation and was able to simulate both watershed-scale streamflow response

and groundwater table and soil moisture dynamics at the sub-field scale. Given the relatively simple model structure, transparent theoretical underpinnings and minimal calibration, the model is useful not only for predicting hydrologic response but also for testing its underlying assumptions about the dominant hydrological processes. As the model yields predictions of runoff Selleck Alectinib generating zones, it forms the basis for a decision support tool for identifying critical runoff source areas in combination this website with “hydrologically sensitive moments” that have a high potential for targeted management practices. It is important to note that users interested in using this model should verify that saturation-excess runoff processes are important in their region. If not, it is likely that a simpler approach of avoiding polluting activities in areas that have low infiltration capacities or during times of the year when high intensity storms are expected would be more effective. In addition, model predictions are limited by the resolution of the DEMs underlying the STI maps. Small-scale flow paths such as ditches can radically

alter surface water dynamics, but are not always identified in STIs created from USGS 10 m DEMs. Instead, LIDAR–derived STIs are more likely to capture small scale spatial wetness patterns (Buchanan et al., 2013). Additionally, we expect tile drains to prevent overland runoff in areas the model will predict to be wet. However, because tile drains create an alternate rapid pathway for water, they also have potential to transport P and other pollutants from agricultural fields (Geohring et al., 2001), and so the prediction of runoff generation in these areas could be a useful indication of another rapid transport mechanism to stream outlets. Funding for this research came from the USDA through a NIFA Land Grant number 2012-67019-19434.

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