Topographic data processing in modeling of river network structure and watershed delineation

Abstract

The automated extraction of topographic parameters from Digital Elevation Modeis (DEMs) is considered here as an alternative to traditional manual identification of basin's boundaries and river network. The capabilities of DEMs for use in simulations of river network and basin's boundaries are investigated. Processing flow for watershed and river network delineation is elaborated based on IDRISI32 and TOPAZ programs capabilities. This paper presents the methodology of delineation of hydrographic characteristics starting from the basic available source of hypsometric data – topographic map. Critical source area and DEM's resolutions are considered as steering parameters of the quality of simulated hydrographic features. Investigations of regional value of critical source area is indicated as future research path