Cold Regions Engineering: Combined Effects of Temperature and Soils on Infiltration
Abstract
The hydrographic response of watersheds to precipitation is determined by their morphologies and their abilities to abstract rainfall. The abstraction ability of a soil is determined by its infiltration rate, which in turn is a function of its hydraulic properties and antecedent water content. Loss rate parameters in runoff models are typically determined by the type, condition, and cover for the hydrographic unit being considered. Seasonal effects are rarely, if ever considered. Recent research by scientists at ERDC and DRI has found that temperature can have a strong influence on loss rates. Modeling studies funded by the UFDP in the Las Vegas Valley indicate that temperature also can have a strong effect on infiltration. Further, these studies indicate that the nature of the temperature effect is strongly affected by the soil. Accordingly, modeling of hydrographic response may be improved by including temperature effects, but only if the temperature soil interaction is included explicitly.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA430682
Entities
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center