The relevance of subsurface storm flow for runoff generation

Apart from the well-studied surface flow processes, fast subsurface flow can contribute significantly to downstream flow response after a storm. Subsurface flow is also responsible for the fast draining of the soil and therefore influences the retention capacity during prolonged rainfall events. The mechanisms and prediction of such fast subsurface flows through preferential pathways, are investigated in this project. Artificial tracers and 222Rn as natural tracer are used to determine flow velocities and residence times of the infiltrated water. The structural factors and soil properties are determined by analyzing soil profiles and are scaled up using geophysical methods. The experimental results will be used to set up a double-porosity simulation model to assess the relevant parameter governing the occurrence of subsurface flow.

More information about the project can be found in the following poster:

• The Relevance of Fast Subsurface Storm Flow

Contacts

F. Naef

Agency/Funding

IHW/85 kCHF, INTERREG IIIB/90 kCHF

Partners

State office for water affairs
Research institute for forest ecology Rheinland Pfalz
University of Trier
University of Freiburg
Centre de Recherche Public Luxembourg

Status

Running