BASINS

Better Assessment Science Integrating Point and Non-point Sources (BASINS)

Better Assessment Science Integrating Point and Nonpoint Sources (BASINS) is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) model that supports watershed and water quality studies, including the development of total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), coastal zone management, nonpoint source programs, and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NDPES) permitting.

Developer
EPA
Model Information
For more information about this model, go to www.epa.gov
Spatial Resolution
The spatial resolution matches USGS digital elevation maps and the national hydrography watershed data maps (10m spacing). Model is GIS compatible.
Temporal Resolution
USGS stream gage data sets are preloaded 15-60min intervals depending on the region. The temporal resolution is determined based on the input data selected.
Outputs
Outputs specifics include water quality characteristics.
Intended User
practitioner
Model Type
watershed
Inclusion of Climate Change
Climate data is explicitly included with the Climate Assessment Tool Add-on and climate datasets are built-in.
Geographic Region
generalized
Data Requirements
some data sets built in
Source Code Availability
open source
Dimensions
3d
Computational Burden
low
Scenario Modeling
scenarios by hand only
Coding Language
GUI
Operating System
windows
Mathematical Approach
simulation
Maintenance Plan
maintained
Date of Last Known Update
not available
User Manual
go to documentation at www.epa.gov