Subsurface flow simulation of a small plot at loch chon, Scotland

Abstract

Abstract Subsurface flow through a small forested hillslope plot in central Scotland has been studied by simulating the flow dynamics using a two‐dimensional saturated‐unsaturated subsurface flow finite element model. Parameter calibration based on the extensive hydrological data available at plot scale, has been performed using various search strategies and alternative objective functions. Good soil water potential simulations were obtained for mainly saturated events, although the simulated throughflows were significantly overestimated. the simulation of unsaturated events was less satisfactory. Throughflow overestimation May, reflect measurement uncertainty, but is also consistent with the effects of macroporosity.