The Hydrological Simulation Program – Fortran (HSPF) is a useful modeling tool across multiple pollutant sources, spatial scales, and time steps. The model uses rainfall and meteorological data and applies it across the landscape, taking into account both pervious and impervious surfaces. The model is capable of predicting flow rate, sediment load, and nutrient and pesticide concentrations. According to the EPA website, HSPF is “the only comprehensive watershed hydrology and water quality model that allows integrated simulation of land and soil contaminant runoff processes with in-stream hydraulic and sediment-chemical interactions”.

The input requirements for HSPF are as follows (from USGS):

• precipitation records
• evapotraspiration predictions
• Air temperature, wind, solar radiation, humidity, cloud cover, tillage, point sources and pesticide application all may be required for water-quality simulation.
• Physical specifications may also be required

Much of the data can be accessed through EPA’s BASINS system.

HSPF Resources

HSPF lecture through EPA’s Basins program

While there are fewer self-training opportunities available for HSPF, the model has been fully integrated into EPAs BASINS system and is the primary watershed model for that system. As such, there are numerous resources within the BASINS system that train directly on the HSPF system, accessible HERE.

Loading simulation program in c++

LSPC is a closely related modeling tool using the same data specifications but applying them across larger watersheds. This model is primarily applicable for TMDL development. Model downloads, tools, and information are available from the EPA’s website HERE.