Application of Macaque and 3PG in CAT catchment-scale hydrological models: limitations and opportunities

Abstract

Forest management, fire and climate change can have profound and lasting effects on catchment water balances and water yields. This is because significant changes in the growth and structure of forests can lead to changes in evaporation, rainfall interception and transpiration, and in resulting streamflow. Process-based models that incorporate the major environmental influences on the growth and water use of forests and vegetation, and on the consequential effects on streamflow, allow us to explore the likely effects of the change in forest structure on resulting catchment water balances. Results from these models are being used, to underpin the development of water and forest management str..