HowLeaky?

HowLeaky? represents a rebuilding of the PERFECT V3 model, with an enhanced interface designed to be useful to a range of non-modellers to explore the implications of alternative land-uses on water balance, runoff, erosion, and drainage. This is an experimental approach to explore whether a more user-friendly interface will enable a wider range of users to use daily simulation models as an aid to land use planning.

HL uses a simple leaf area driven crop model (LAI model) and a generic pan evaporation model (ET: Pan model) to represent pastures and trees. These models are responsive to water, temperature and radiation stress, and represent the dynamics between weather, soils and vegetation in so far as these impact on water use and water and sediment flows. Since crop production is treated simply, these models should not be expected to simulation detailed crop management options such as soil fertility detailed phenology or population issues.

HL is a cooperative project between the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines, the New South Wales Department of Land and Water Conservation, and the Victorian Department of Natural Resources and Environment.