Potential assessment of calibration approaches using the SWAT hydrological model for streamflow and sediment yield for a large-scale catchment

ABSTRACT This study explored the potential of three calibration approaches – single-site, multisite, and multisite–multivariable – to simulate the streamflow and sediment yield of the Upper Blue Nile (UBN) river basin using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). Several statistical indices were used to verify the SWAT model performance. While all three approaches reasonably estimate the streamflow and sediment yield, the multisite calibration approach was found to perform better in handling the spatial variability of parameters and their influence on streamflow and sediment yield over the entire catchment. Further, evaluations of hydropower potential at the selected location were conducted to demonstrate the importance of calibration approaches in planning and designing various water resource structures.