Development of an AutoWEP distributed hydrological model and its application to the upstream catchment of the Miyun Reservoir

Based on the physically characterized distributed hydrological modeling scheme – WEP-L – a more generalized and expandable method – AutoWEP – has been developed that is equipped with updated modules for pre-processing and automatic parameter identification. Sub-basin scale classifications of land use and soil are undertaken by incorporating remote sensing data and geographic information system techniques. In the process of developing the AutoWEP modeling scheme, a new concept of parameter partitioning is proposed and an automatic delineation of parameter partitions is achieved through programming. The sensitivity analysis algorithm, LH-OAT, and the parameter optimization algorithm, SCE-UA, are embedded in the model. Its application to the upstream watershed of the Miyun Reservoir shows that AutoWEP features time-savings, improved efficiency and suitable generalizations, that result in a long series of acceptable simulations.