Modelling nitrate behaviour in a small catchment, east Devon, UK

Abstract

Stream water samples have been collected from a small (1.6 km²) cultivated catchment in East Devon, UK. Spatial, long term and storm-period nitrate behaviour is described, and attempts are made to model response using a range of statistical techniques for four major gauging stations. These include the main stream and three “representative” subcatchments which reflect variable source areas and include a natural woodland stream, a tile drain and drainage ditch. The variability in partial area contributions from these areas plus the impact of fertiliser application and extreme hydrological conditions are shown to seriously affect the success of modelling procedures.