Hydrologic response of freshwater watersheds to climatic variability: Model development

To evaluate the hydrologic and biogeochemical response of freshwater watersheds to climatic variability properly, a mathematical model with detailed parameterization in describing the hydrologic and thermal processes in a watershed is needed. For this purpose, the Enhanced Trickle Down model was modified to predict the hydrologic and thermal responses of freshwater watersheds to various climate change scenarios. Modifications of the model included the incorporation of an energy transfer submodel, an improved hydraulic conductivity scheme, and the coupling with a point source snowmelt model. The results of calibration and verification of the model using 8 years of field data collected at the Agricultural Research Service, W-3 watershed, located near Danville, Vermont, are presented.