Evaluating the WATBAL sediment loading model, Clearwater National Forest, Idaho

Efforts to protect water quality while managing national forests for logging purposes are currently constrained by limited information on the application, interpretation, and validation of sediment loading models. For years, these models have been used to predict the impacts of logging, road-building, and fires on sediment loading to streams. However, in the Clearwater National Forest, where the WATBAL sediment loading model is used, model results have never been compared to actual field measurements. Without model validation, forest managers are working with unverified information regarding the impacts of logging activities on aquatic systems. To effectively manage our national forests and their aquatic ecosystems, we must provide accurate information to forest managers. This paper presents the results of comparing the WATBAL output to field measurements of sediment loading to streams in the Clearwater National Forest, IDHickey "Evaluating the WATBAL sediment loading model, Clearwater National Forest, Idaho." Northwest Science. 1997; 71(3): 233-24