Development and testing of a snow interceptometer to quantify canopy water storage and interception processes in the rain/snow transition zone of the North Cascades, Washington, USA

摘要: [1] Tree canopy snow interception is a significant hydrological process, capable of removing up to 60% from the ground snowpack. Our understanding has been limited by our ability measure whole water storage in an undisturbed forest setting. This study presents relatively inexpensive technique for directly measuring using interceptometer, adapted Friesen et al. (2008). The interceptometer composed four linear motion position sensors distributed evenly around tree trunk. We incorporate trunk laser-mapping installation method precise sensor placement reduce signal error due misalignment. Through calibration techniques, amount required produce measured displacements can be calculated. demonstrate instrument performance on western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) event November 2011. find capture efficiency 83 ± 15% accumulated snowfall with maximum capacity 50 ± 8 mm equivalent (SWE). observed compared simulated interception, represented variable infiltration (VIC) hydrologic model. model generally underreported magnitude 33% leaf area index (LAI) 5 and 16% LAI 10. captured intrastorm accumulation melt rates 3 0.75 SWE h−1, respectively, which failed represent. While further implementation validation necessary, preliminary results indicate that may underestimated maritime areas.