Applying the WEPP erosion model to timber harvest areas

Elliot, W.J.; Robichaud, P.R.; Luce, C.H. 1995. Applying the WEPP erosion model to timber harvest areas. In: Proceedings of the ASCE Watershed Management Conference, August 1995, San Antonio, TX. American Society of Civil Engineers. 83--92.

Keywords: WEPP

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Abstract: Disturbed forest lands are prone to increased erosion. Predicting the effects of timber harvest on surface hydrology and erosion is difficult. Hydrologic models have been developed for agricultural conditions, but they may not be valid in forests. The WEPP model, a process-based erosion model under development, may have limitations in modeling erosion in timber harvest areas. Field research has shown that timber harvest area soil properties may vary widely. However, the range of variation observed in the Southeastern United States is similar to the range observed in the Northern Rocky Mountains. The WEPP model accounted for differences in erosion due to management and climate. Initial simulations with the model may be overpredicting runoff due to summer storms in the Northern Rockies. A model that better describes the unique attributes of this region's upland hydrology may be needed. Additional research is also needed for modeling the large spatial variability observed in timber harvest areas.

Moscow FSL publication no. 1995f