Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the suitability of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool model insimulating runoff and sediment loss in the Carapelle (SE Italy), a typical Mediterranean watershed,where continuous measurements of streamflow and sediment concentration were collected overa 5-year period, on a half-hour timescale, processed on a daily timescale. After sensitivity analysis,the model was calibrated and validated for runoff and sediment. Statistics show generally satisfactoryefficiency. To further improve sediment simulation performance, we used a seasonal calibrationscheme, in which data recorded in the dry and wet seasons were used to calibratesediments separately, on a seasonal basis. We also tested the model's capability in identifyingthe major sediment source zones and river segments where there is sediment deposition. Onthe basin scale, the average water yield (186 mm) corresponds to 27% of the total rainfall(686 mm), and average annual sediment load was estimated to be 6.8 t ha-1 year-1. On thesubbasin scale, a gradient of sediment yield was found that is characterised by a large differenceamong the upper (7 to 13 t ha-1 year-1), central, and lower parts (<1 t ha-1 year-1) of the studyarea. Conversely, deposition in channel flow has its highest values in the central part of the watershed,where there is an alluvial plain. Winter wheat and olive land use are the major source areas,in terms of sediment. This study confirms that the Mediterranean watershed is a fragile ecosystem,and measures are needed to mitigate soil depletion.[object Object]

Autore Pugliese

• De Girolamo Anna Maria

Tutti gli autori

• Ricci G.F.; De Girolamo A.M.; Abdelwahab O.M.M.; Gentile F.

Titolo volume/Rivista

Land degradation & development

Anno di pubblicazione

2018

ISSN

1085-3278

ISBN

Non Disponibile

Numero di citazioni Wos

Nessuna citazione

Ultimo Aggiornamento Citazioni

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Numero di citazioni Scopus

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Ultimo Aggiornamento Citazioni

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Settori ERC

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Codici ASJC

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