SMALL-SCALE LINK CHARACTERISTICS AND APPLICATIONS TO EROSION MODELING

Flow path link characteristics of small-scale surface drainage network s are examined using 426 links obtained from erosion plot data. Link l engths and drainage areas varied considerably in the data set. The dis tribution of link lengths was well represented by a log-normal probabi lity density function. Regression equations were developed to predict link drainage area as a function of link length. Flow path networks we re predicted by combining link characteristics with the topology defin ed by an infinite topologically random network. Bifurcation, length, a nd area ratios of these networks are in good agreement with previously reported observed values. The usefulness of this approach in modeling soil erosion is illustrated by coupling the network algorithm with so il detachment and transport relationships.