Location: National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory
Project Number: 5020-12130-004-006-A
Project Type: Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Apr 1, 2019
End Date: Jun 30, 2023
Objective:
Specific objectives are to: 1) Evaluate, test and update the WEPP watershed model for use in NRCS applications with LiDAR data; 2) Support NRCS WEPP hillslope model applications by analyzing database updates on model performance; and, 3) Prepare peer reviewed or internal reports to support modeling work.
Approach:
This project will develop and test approaches for watershed simulations with the WEPP erosion model and databases, working closely with USDA-ARS staff. In particular it will utilize geo-spatial elevation data in available digital elevation models (DEMs) and from more detailed LiDAR elevation information to obtain slope inputs and watershed geometry information to setup and run WEPP watershed simulations. New databases for watershed specific inputs to the model will be developed and tested. These will include appropriate channel parameters and conservation practices such as grassed waterways and impoundments. Additional watershed outputs from the WEPP model will be added to support NRCS projects. Where possible the watershed application will be validated with observed data.
Earlier cooperative projects have supported developing cropping and operations databases for use with WEPP. This will continue with emphasis on model source code updates when refining the databases. The cooperator will provide analysis of the impacts of any database parameter changes and assist in developing the optimal parameters to use with WEPP.
