Linking a spatially explicit watershed model (SWAT) with an in‐stream fish habitat model (PHABSIM): A case study of setting minimum flows and levels in a low gradient, sub‐tropical river

摘要: As changes in landuse and the demand for water accelerate, regulators resource managers are increasingly asked to evaluate allocation against need protection of in-stream habitat. In United States, only a small number river basins have long-term hydrograph data needed make these assessments. This paper presents an example how bridge conceptual physical divide between GIS-based watershed modelling basin-discharge hydraulic habitat models. Specifically, we used Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model Hillsborough River produce use Physical HABitat SIMulation (PHABSIM) same river. coupling models allowed us develop discharge ungauged systems based on characteristics precipitation records. However this approach is not without important limitations. Results confirm that accuracy SWAT-predicted declines significantly when either DEM resolution becomes too coarse or if resampled coarser finer resolution. due both size shape basin with varying DEMs subsequent shifts proportions land use, soils elevation. show 30 m produced hydrographic patterns amenable using protocols like PHABSIM model, especially where little no information exists. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.