Applications of AnnAGNPS model for soil loss estimation and nutrient loading for Malaysian conditions

Abstract

The study evaluated the performance and suitability of AnnAGNPS model in assessing runoff, sediment loading and nutrient loading under Malaysian conditions. The watershed of River Kuala Tasik in Malaysia, a combination of two sub-watersheds, was selected as the area of study. The data for the year 2004 was used to calibrate the model and the data for the year 2005 was used for validation purposes. Several input parameters were computed using methods suggested by other researchers and studies carried out in Malaysia. The study shows that runoff was predicted well with an overall R2 value of 0.90 and E value of 0.70. Sediment loading was able to produce a moderate result of R2=0.66 and E=0.49, nitrogen loading predictions were slightly better with R2=0.68 and E=0.53, and phosphorus loading performance was slightly poor with an R2=0.63 and E=0.33. The erosion map developed was in agreement with the erosion risk map produced by the Department of Agriculture, Malaysia. Rubber estates and urban areas were found to be the main contributors to soil erosion. The simulation results showed that AnnAGNPS has the potential to be used as a valuable tool for planning and management of watersheds under Malaysian conditions.