Journal article

Publication year: 1997

Pages: 165-172

Journal: Journal of Environmental Quality

Volume number: 26

Issue number: 1

ISSN: 0047-2425

eISSN: 1537-2537

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.2134/jeq1997.00472425002600010024x

Publisher: Wiley

Abstract: 
Until recently, no suitable computer model was available to quantify P and N yields of nonpoint sources into surface water in central German watersheds. The event-based erosion and nutrient transport model AGNPS (Version 3.65), developed in the USA, was adapted to central German landscape conditions and linked to a GIS. Drawing on a 2-yr program of water quality measurements and on hydrologic data collected during 33 yr, this modified model was tested in two medium-sized agricultural watersheds in the state of Hesse, Germany. With deviations of 1.7 and 3.8%, runoff volumes for all observed and simulated flood events showed a high level of agreement In both watersheds. Peak Bows showed larger errors averaging 14.8 and 24%. Only for one of the two watersheds were sediment and total P yield computed satisfactorily, with average errors of 5% (sediment) and 6% (total P). Deviations for the second watershed were considerably greater. The same is true for the dissolved P and N yields. In the case of small events, AGNPS consistently overestimated the particulate P yield in both watersheds. However, the model correctly registered the overall dynamics of the system as well as the differences of sediment and total P yield between the two watersheds. The modified AGNPS model can thus be employed by environmental agencies as a useful planning tool.

Harvard Citation style: Rode, M. and Frede, H. (1997) Modification of AGNPS for agricultural land and climate conditions in central Germany, Journal of Environmental Quality, 26(1), pp. 165-172. https://doi.org/10.2134/jeq1997.00472425002600010024x

APA Citation style: Rode, M., & Frede, H. (1997). Modification of AGNPS for agricultural land and climate conditions in central Germany. Journal of Environmental Quality. 26(1), 165-172. https://doi.org/10.2134/jeq1997.00472425002600010024x