Effect of digital elevation model (DEM) resolution on the hydrological and water quality modeling

Ramesh S.V. Teegavarapu, Chandramouli Viswanathan, Lindell Ormsbee

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

The resolution of digital elevation model (DEM) used for watershed delineation and data extracted from the delineated watershed relevant to hydrography plays an important role in the calibration of hydrological models. The effect of DEM resolution on the drainage length, watershed area and average slope are studied in many earlier works. DEM resolution can have impact on hydrologic modeling parameters, water quality simulation results. The impacts of DEM resolution on results of the watershed response and water quality modeling are studied using HSPF (Hydrologic Simulation Program Fortran) model applied to a watershed in Kentucky in this study. Three major streams in this watershed are impaired due to pathogen pollution according to the current state of Kentucky water quality standard set for recreation. The effects of DEM resolution on water quality modeling and calibration for fecal coliform bacteria are studied using a HSPF model. Results from this study indicate that the DEM resolution affects hydrography parameters of the delineated watershed, influence the calibration process, and the non-point and point source loadings to the streams in the watershed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationExamining the Confluence of Environmental and Water Concerns - Proceedings of the World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2006
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007
EventWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2006: Examining the Confluence of Environmental and Water Concerns - Omaha, NE, United States
Duration: May 21 2006May 25 2006

Publication series

NameExamining the Confluence of Environmental and Water Concerns - Proceedings of the World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2006

Conference

ConferenceWorld Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2006: Examining the Confluence of Environmental and Water Concerns
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOmaha, NE
Period5/21/065/25/06

Keywords

  • Digital techniques
  • Hydrologic aspects
  • Water quality

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Environmental Science

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