THE ROLE OF LANDSCAPE ELEMENT CHARACTERISTICS AND ORIENTATION ON CATCHMENT RUNOFF COMPOSITION

We suggest that landscape element characteristics and configuration are first-order controls on streamflow generation and composition. Shifting storm runoff sources and flowpaths control runoff composition and timing and are inherently linked to landscape form and topology. We present results from Maimai New Zealand, Panola Mountain Georgia, and Sleepers River Vermont that illustrate the roles of hillslopes and riparian zones in controlling headwater catchment runoff composition. We also illustrate the role of a mountain watershed - valley transition landscape element in mountain front recharge/discharge, resetting streamflow runoff composition in the Centennial Valley of Montana. Finally, we offer terrain analysis techniques for landscape discretization into dominant landscape elements over large watersheds. We suggest that analysis of landscape element characteristics and topology combined with process level research within and between landscape elements provides is a necessary first step for scaling hydrological and biogeochemical understanding.