ARS | Publication request: Application of the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) Model for Soil Erosion Estimation and Conservation Planning

Submitted to: Agro-Environment Symposium
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: February 15, 2010
Publication Date: May 19, 2010
Citation: Flanagan, D.C. 2010. Application of the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) Model for Soil Erosion Estimation and Conservation Planning [abstract]. Agro-Environment Symposium, May 19-22, 2010, Cancun, Mexico. 2010 CDROM.

Technical Abstract: The Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) model is a process-based, continuous- simulation, distributed parameter erosion simulation model for application to field-scale hillslope profiles and small watersheds. Developed over the past 25 years by the United States Department of Agriculture, it contains state-of-the-art science for estimating surface runoff, and detachment, transport and deposition of sediment. This presentation will briefly describe the model science components, and applicability, and will provide some detailed example of how the WEPP model or components from it have been applied to solve a variety of needs and problems. The model has been used extensively by the USDA-Forest Service and the USDI-Bureau of Land Management for erosion prediction and response on forested areas experiencing timber harvesting or wildfire. Additionally, geo-spatial interfaces have been developed that allow WEPP to be easily applied for erosion estimates for almost any location within the United States. Newest work with WEPP is related to utilization of the water erosion component in other models, including within a combined wind and water erosion model, as well as with a large-scale hydrology model (VIC). Current model status and results from validation and application research studies with observed data will also be presented.