Wind Erosion Prediction System (WEPS)

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Wind Erosion Prediction System (WEPS)
WEPS for NRCS
WEPS User Interface
WEPS Model

• Why do we need WEPS?
• To predict wind erosion where the Wind Erosion
  Equation (WEQ) does not, even though erosion is
  observed (Eastern US).
• Not all States use the same version of WEQ, and
  some States do not calculate wind erosion at all.
• To provide more wind erosion information than
  just tons/acre/year.
• WEPS is easier, faster, and more user-friendly.
• To address questions about air quality
  (suspension and particulate matter).
• Benefits
• Many States and areas will calculate wind erosion
  for the first time.
• Provides tool for calculating consistent erosion
  rates for programs and conservation planning.
• More time efficient than the current model.
• Provides a uniform model for all States to
  calculate wind erosion.
• Will quantify offsite impacts, including Surface
  (creep and saltation) and Suspension (total
  suspension and particulate matter).
• Rollout
• Train-the-Trainer sessions will be held Oct-Dec
  2007.
• Rollout is scheduled for Jan-Dec 2008.

Erosion Detail Report
Crop Report
Hydrology Submodel
Output Report Files
Soil Submodel
Management Submodel
Weather Inputs (windgen cligen)
WEPS Run Input Files
Crop Growth Submodel
Residue Decomposition Submodel
Erosion Submodel

• WEPS Interface User Inputs
• Field Dimensions/Orientation
• Field Location (climate selection)
• Management/Crop Rotation
• Soil Type
• Wind Barriers (if any)

U.S. Cropland susceptible to wind erosion
Soil and Surface Properties
WEQ predicts little or no erosion on the Eastern
US
Mike Sporcic Wind Erosion Specialist Central
National Technology Support Center Michael.Sporcic
_at_ftw.usda.gov
USDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer
July 2007