Large Sample Basin Experiments for Hydrological Model Parameterization: Results of the Model Parameter Experiment–MOPEX. IAHS Publ. 307, 2006, 264–277.
Regionalization of a monthly rainfall–runoff model
for the southern half of France based on a sample of 880 gauged catchments
NATHALIE FOLTON & JACQUES LAVABRE
Cemagref, BP 31, 13612 Aix-en-Provence, France
Abstract The aim of this study was to provide a means of determining reference low flows at any point in the hydrographic network in the southern half of France, using a continuous monthly rainfall–runoff modelling approach. The model adopted here has two parameters that were calibrated on 880 catchments. The accuracy of the calibrated model was excellent for assessing the mean annual discharge, and limited errors were observed in predicting low flows. A regionalization procedure was performed for the two parameters, using an upward approach and adopting a grid of set values based on environmental data. Based on comparisons with optimum parameters, a regional map of corrected parameters was drawn up. This model satisfactorily simulates mean annual discharge, and the level of uncertainty observed on low flow values is acceptable, given the difficulty in estimating extremely low flows.
Key words
low flows; rainfall–runoff model; regionalization