Using micro‐catchment experiments for multi‐local scale modelling of nature‐based solutions

The Q-natural flood management project has co-developed with the Environment Agency 18 monitored micro-catchments (~1 km2) in Cumbria, UK installing calibrated flumes aimed at quantifying potential shift observed flows resulting from a range of nature-based-solutions installed by local organizations. small-scale reduces influence variability characterizing larger catchments that would otherwise mask any such shifts, which we attempt to relate model parameters. This paper demonstrates an approach applying donor-parameter-shifts obtained modelling two paired much scale, order understand for improved distributed nature-based solutions form additional tree-planting. models include rainfall-runoff model, Dynamic Topmodel, and 2D hydrodynamic JFlow, permitting analysis changes hillslope processes channel hydrodynamics measures designed emulate natural hydrological evaporate, store or infiltrate flows. We report on attempts detect response using one paired-micro-catchment moorland versus forestry sites Lorton Topmodel. A donor-parameter-shift is used hypothetical experiment represent new woodland catchment, although testing all combinations spatial planting strategies, responses multiple-extremes, failure-modes synchronization becomes intractable support good decision making. argue problem can be re-framed use multi-local-scale above communities known risk, commensurate most evidence NbS impacts being effective small scale (ca. 10 km2). might lead more help catchment managers prioritize those communities-at-risk where there effective.