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Modeling Connectivity of Non‐floodplain Wetlands: Insights, Approaches, and Recommendations
Citation:
Jones, C., A. Ameli, B. Neff, G. Evenson, D. McLaughlin, H. Golden, AND C. Lane. Modeling Connectivity of Non‐floodplain Wetlands: Insights, Approaches, and Recommendations. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN WATER RESOURCES ASSOCIATION. American Water Resources Association, Middleburg, VA, 55(3):559-577, (2019). https://doi.org/10.1111/1752-1688.12735
Impact/Purpose:
Despite recent policy and science needs, hydrologic connectivity between non-floodplain wetlands and other watershed components is still poorly represented in many process-based hydrologic models. To explore current modeling capabilities and tradeoffs, we present four case studies that utilize process-based models optimized to incorporate non-floodplain wetlands and examine their hydrologic connections to other waters. Models range from a simple, lumped parameter model to a highly complex, fully distributed integrated surface-subsurface flow model. Across models, we highlight appropriate application of each model, emphasizing spatial and temporal scales, computational demands, and process representation. We also discuss non-traditional calibration and validation techniques, including the use of novel remote sensing products and distributed measurement of wetland water levels. Finally, we highlight challenges and uncertainties associated with each model, ending with a synthesis of “best modeling practices” to guide both research and practitioner communities in model application and future model design. In doing so, this inter-model comparison highlights available modeling approaches to incorporate wetland connectivity into modeling studies, demonstrates the tradeoffs among such approaches to consider in model selection, and provides guidance for model application and development.
Description:
Representing hydrologic connectivity of non‐floodplain wetlands (NFWs) to downstream waters in process‐based models is an emerging challenge relevant to many research, regulatory, and management activities. We review four case studies that utilize process‐based models developed to simulate NFW hydrology. Models range from a simple, lumped parameter model to a highly complex, fully distributed model. Across case studies, we highlight appropriate application of each model, emphasizing spatial scale, computational demands, process representation, and model limitations. We end with a synthesis of recommended “best modeling practices” to guide model application. These recommendations include: (1) clearly articulate modeling objectives, and revisit and adjust those objectives regularly; (2) develop a conceptualization of NFW connectivity using qualitative observations, empirical data, and process‐based modeling; (3) select a model to represent NFW connectivity by balancing both modeling objectives and available resources; (4) use innovative techniques and data sources to validate and calibrate NFW connectivity simulations; and (5) clearly articulate the limits of the resulting NFW connectivity representation. Our review and synthesis of these case studies highlights modeling approaches that incorporate NFW connectivity, demonstrates tradeoffs in model selection, and ultimately provides actionable guidance for future model application and development.
URLs/Downloads:
DOI: Modeling Connectivity of Non‐floodplain Wetlands: Insights, Approaches, and Recommendations