Distributed numerical model for estimating runoff and sediment discharge of ungaged rivers 2. Model development

Abstract

This is the second of a series of three papers describing the methodology of development of a distributed model for estimating runoff and sediment discharge of ungaged rivers. This paper presents the design of the model which permits its application to watersheds of any size and the obtaining of runoff and sediment time series at any point of the river basin which is being modeled. The model requires inputs which are usually available for most areas and/or can easily be synthesized from secondary sources or by transposition. The model was designed with the aim of keeping the number of model parameters at a minimum. It permits the simulation of the nonlinear response of the watershed elements to the meteorological input. The model calibration and validation were carried out by using data available in a river basin in southern Ontario. A more detailed analysis of the calibration‐validation results is presented in the third paper of the series.