Estimating Micro-Relief Surface Storage from Point Data

A distributed model for calculating surface storage and runoff amounts for a plot from grid elevations was developed. The model, which operates independently of rainfall and infiltration rates, was applied to field observations on sixteen plots, before and after rainfall applica-tion. The results showed that limited runoff occurs con-currently with buildup of micro-relief storage. Percent of area contributing runoff increases by steps. Micro-relief storage was increased three to lour times by plowing, but was substantially reduced by subsequent rainfall.