The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used to simulate
the effects of brush removal on water yield in 4 watersheds in Texas for
1960 through 1999. Methods used in this study were similar to methods
used in a previous study (TAES 2000) in which 8 watersheds were
analyzed. Landsat7 satellite imagery was used in the classification of
land use, and the 1:24,000 scale digital elevation model (DEM) was used
to delineate the watershed boundaries and subbasins. SWAT was calibrated
to existing stream gauge flow and/or reservoir storage. Brush removal
was simulated by converting all heavy and moderate categories of brush
(except oak) to open range (native grass). Treatment or removal of light
brush was not simulated. Results of brush treatment in all watersheds
are presented. Water yield (surface runoff and base flow) varied by
subbasin, but all subbasins showed an increase in water yield as a
result of removing brush. Economic and wildlife habitat considerations
will impact actual amounts of brush removed. |
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