Simulating Landscape Hydrologic Connectivity in a Precise Manner Using Hydro-Conditioning

Abstract

High resolution Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)-derived Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) have significantly enhanced hydrological modeling and agricultural planning. However, it is important to accurately simulate the landscape flow network by modifying the LiDAR derived DEM. Hydro-conditioning identifies false pools and depressions and places breach lines to ensure continuous flow through the surfaces such as bridges, culverts, and railroads. This study explores the variations in the criteria namely flow network, impeded flows, depression etc. which determine the finest locations of best management practices using watershed models. Study compares different levels of hydro-conditioned DEMs for the Plum Creek sub-watershed, Minnesota. Results indicate that both manual and automated ‘hDEMs’ facilitate field scale planning and practice siting to different degrees. Outcomes help in planning cost-effective precision agriculture activities.