Effect of Scale on SWAT Model Performance in Simulation of Runoff (Case Study: Haraz Catchment in Mazandaran Province)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. candidate, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

2 Associate Professor, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources

3 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Gonbad

4 Associate Professor, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili

Abstract

The performances of the hydrological models differ in simulating runoff within basins of various areas. The main objective followed here was to perform a multi-site (spatially distributed) calibration and validation of SWAT using monthly observed flows from 4 gauging stations in Haraz River and as well to assess the model’s capability in performing reliable simulations at spatial scales smaller than those in the calibration phase. To follow the purpose, sensitivity analysis performed, making use of SUFI2 method indicated which parameters to be used in autocalibration. CN parameter was chosen as the most sensitive one. The model simulated the time to peak as well as peak flow discharge with a highly suitable performance in the studied areas. The predicted monthly streamflow matched the observed values, with R­2 and NS of 0.80 and 0.77, respectively during calibration along with 0.87 and 0.75, respectively during validation. However, values of NS for sub catchments ranged from 0.55 to 0.73 during calibration, and 0.70 to 0.77 during validation. Findings indicate that the model performance works more appropriately in large area basins.

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Main Subjects

References

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