1.5 User Skills
Your task is manipulating hydrologic and soil moisture parameters to make the simulation more closely match the observed data.
Make sure you have the necessary skills to perform this task more easily.
Experience with CHPS
The experience you have creating forecasts helps you calibrate hydrologic models.
The interface for the CHPS calibration application is the Interactive Forecast Display (IFD).
Your knowledge of the interface features and functions makes calibration easier.
Knowledge of Hydrology and Modeling
Understanding rainfall-runoff relationships, snowmelt processes, and other hydrologic science topics are necessary when calibrating.
Log into the NWS Learning Management System (LMS) and peruse the courses in the Basic Hydrology section.
Read through available documentation on the model you are calibrating. You can calibrate the model more effectively if you know model sensitivities and state variables.
Forecaster Experience
Forecasting for a basin on a regular basis provides insight into how the segments react to rainfall and runoff.
Use information from Forecaster Notes in CHPS and any personal documentation you have to assist in model calibration.
Still have questions? Ask the DOH or a forecaster experienced with calibration for help.