Effects of digital elevation model data source on HSPF-based watershed-scale flow and water quality simulations

Digital elevation models (DEMs) from different sources have been widely utilized in watershed modeling and environment management. Yet, little is known about how DEMs from different data sources affect modeling results and management decisions. This paper presents new insights into how the DEMs from three different sources affect model-simulated flow, nitrate (NO3), phosphorus (P), and sediment by using the BASINS/ HSPF watershed modeling system. It was found that DEM source-induced uncertainties in simulation results are higher than the DEM resolution-induced uncertainties regardless of watershed slope or delineation method. Moreover, DEM source introduces higher uncertainties in simulation results for automatically delineated low-gradient watersheds than high gradient watersheds. Sediment and NO3 concentrations were the most and the least sensitive water quality parameters, respectively, to DEM sources. The uncertainties in simulation results may be reduced by using the manual method for watershed delineation but they cannot be completely eliminated. It is recommended that high precision (such as NED) DEMs be employed especially for flat watersheds. The findings provide guidelines for selection of DEM source based on available resources.

Automated summary

This study investigates how DEMs from three different sources affect model-simulated flow, nitrate, phosphorus, and sediment. It is found that the uncertainties in simulation results induced by different DEM sources are higher than those induced by DEM resolution, regardless of watershed slope or delineation method. DEM source introduces higher uncertainties in simulation results for low-gradient watersheds than high-gradient watersheds. Sediment and NO3 concentrations are the most and the least sensitive water quality parameters to DEM sources, respectively. The use of high precision DEMs is recommended, especially for flat watersheds.