Abstract
Decision makers need to know the effects of alternative watershed management strategies on export of nitrogen (N) to coastal waters. They use this knowledge to reduce undesirable effects of excess N in coastal waters. Various models exist to predict the effects of watershed management on export of N. This paper describes a decision framework to identify the appropriate spatial and temporal scales for using N flux models. The framework is developed for existing models that predict N export from large watersheds and the contribution of N sources and N sinks to this N export. With this framework, modelers can identify the appropriate scale for model predictions and independently scalable model parts. The framework bases the appropriateness of model scales on indicators, which are to be specified by the modeler and which are associated with four criteria. The four criteria require modeling scales to correspond with (A) data, mitigation options, and scenarios, (B) model assumptions, (C) available resources for modeling, and (D) requirements of prediction users. A successful application of the framework is illustrated for a global model of dissolved inorganic nitrogen export from watersheds to coastal waters. Ranges of appropriate scales are determined for model output and five independently scalable model parts, which model the (1) surface N balance, (2) point sources, (3) N flux in sediments and small streams, (4) retention in dammed reservoirs, and (5) riverine retention. Appropriate model scales were found, if the four criteria were not set too strict. We conclude that the decision framework can contribute substantially to selecting the appropriate modeling scales in a balanced and comprehensive manner.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Proceedings of ACCURACY 2006 - 7th International Symposium on Spatial Accuracy Assessment in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences |
Editors | Marco Painho, Mario Caetano |
Publisher | Instituto Geografica Portugues |
Pages | 730-739 |
Number of pages | 10 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9728867271, 9789728867270 |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2006 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | 7th International Symposium on Spatial Accuracy Assessment in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences 2006 - Lisbon, Portugal Duration: 5 Jul 2006 → 7 Jul 2006 Conference number: 7 |
Conference
Conference | 7th International Symposium on Spatial Accuracy Assessment in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences 2006 |
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Abbreviated title | Accuracy 2006 |
Country/Territory | Portugal |
City | Lisbon |
Period | 5/07/06 → 7/07/06 |
Keywords
- Decision support
- Models
- Nitrogen cycling
- Scale
- Surface water quality