Publication Date
4-8-2008
Abstract
We introduce a GIS-based integrative modeling approach to examine the sources and transport mechanisms of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from terrestrial ecosystems to coastal oceans. The modeling is based on a set of in situ measurements collected monthly over the last two years. A soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model was adopted as a framework for studying DOC transport processes and linking them with terrestrial biophysical properties. First, the paper discusses a statistical analysis of in situ measurements of freshwater DOC endmember samples and examines their spatial variability with precipitation, season, hydrological processes, and soil physical characteristics. Then we present a predictive model describing the seasonal and spatial patterns of terrestrial DOC sources as well as daily fluxes to coastal water. Our study shows that terrestrial sources of DOC to estuaries can be associated with biophysical and climate conditions that are obtainable using GIS and remote sensing. The model has been tested in the Neponset and Hudson watersheds in the northeast USA.