Experience with a process-oriented road sediment model

Sundberg, E.; Johnston, R.S.; Burroughs, E.R., Jr. 1982. Experience with a process-oriented road sediment model. Modeling components of hydrologic cycle, a part of the proceedings of the International Symposium on rainfall-runoff modeling, May 18-21, 1981, Mississippi State University. Littleton, CO: Water Resources Publications. 577-590.

Keywords: road

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Abstract: Simulated rainfall events were applied to selected sections of mine haul roads to generate surface runoff and sediment for testing of ROSED (Road Sediment Model). ROSED is a process-oriented runoff and erosion prediction model developed at Colorado State University. Parameter needs for ROSED determined the format for collection of field data

A definite improvement in sediment prediction accuracy was obtained by modifying model input to simulate wheel ruts, where applicable, in addition to the side ditch. Total runoff volume could be predicted within +/-20 percent for 75 percent of the rainfall events, and runoff peak flow within +/-10 percent for 67 percent of these events. Total sediment yield could be predicted within +/-25 percent for 62 percent of the rainfall events.

Recommendations for improved field techniques for road erosion studies include: additional rain gages outside the plot boundary for more accurate rainfall distribution maps; and multiple event marker equipment to record beginning and ending of rainfall and runoff, rainfall intensity, and dye travel time all on a common time base.

Recommendations for future investigations with ROSED include: simulation of more complex runoff surfaces, such as wheel ruts; adjustment of model parameters for simulated snowmelt and rainfall with low kinetic energy; relationship of hydraulic roughness parameters to site characteristics; and the relationship of infiltration paramenters to easily measured site characteristics.

Moscow FSL publication no. 1982a