Evaluating SEBAL for estimating arid zone shallow groundwater discharge

Abstract

Shallow groundwater discharge in arid environments and subsequent loss by evapotranspiration (ET) often represents a significant component of the water balance. Evaporation is most reliably measured at the point scale. However, due to the vast distances over which this process can occur, field measurements of discharge are not viable. Remote sensing offers potential in mapping surface information which can be used to estimate ET. Various models have been developed to estimate ET from remote sensing imagery, though these have largely been applied to agricultural areas. Two studies, Kampf & Tyler (2006) and Bastiaansen et al. (1998a,b), have applied a surface energy balance modelling approach ..