Essential Tips for Hydrologic Modeling

Hydrologic modeling using GMS, SMS, or WMS can sometimes present challenges. However, with proper planning and best practices, you can optimize your model’s performance and ensure accurate results. Here are some key tips to improve your modeling process.

1. Plan Your Project Before You Start

Many modeling issues can be prevented through careful planning and design. Common pitfalls include:

• Defining a project area that is too large or too small, leading to unnecessary complexity or missing critical details.

• Selecting an unsuitable numerical model for your project. Each numerical model has specific applications and limitations. Using a model beyond its intended scope often leads to flawed results.

2. Review Imported Data Carefully

Imported or downloaded data should always be reviewed before use. Common data issues include:

• Outlier data: Unusually high or low elevation points can distort results. Use the smoothing and filtering tools in the dataset calculator to remove them.

• Missing data: Gaps in datasets can lead to incomplete analyses. Fill missing areas as needed.

• Incorrect data projection: Ensure all datasets use the same coordinate system and projections for consistency.

• Incomplete coverage: The data should encompass the entire project area to avoid interpolation errors.

3. Prioritize Key Features First

Focus on modeling the most essential features initially. This approach allows you to establish a solid foundation before incorporating additional complexities.

4. Review Your Mesh or Grid

Mesh and grid issues can significantly impact model accuracy. Be on the lookout for:

• Over-refinement or under-refinement: Excessive detail can slow down simulations, while insufficient detail may reduce accuracy.

• Voids or gaps: Small errors in the mesh or grid can sometimes be fixed manually, but significant issues may require regenerating the mesh or grid entirely.

5. Create Multiple Simulations

A step-by-step approach can help refine your model effectively:

• Start with a basic simulation that includes only essential components like the mesh, elevation data, and boundary conditions.

• Once the basic model runs successfully and yields valid results, gradually add complexity, such as structures or additional hydrology parameters.

6. Review Simulation Run Results

After running your simulations, analyze the results carefully to identify potential errors or inconsistencies. Iteratively refining the model based on these insights will improve accuracy and reliability.

When reviewing the simulation results, organizing the results before starting the visualization process will make it easier to show the results, build plots, and perform other post-processing.

By following these best practices, you can enhance the efficiency and accuracy of your hydrologic models in GMS, SMS, and WMS.