Quantification of agricultural best management practices impacts on sediment and phosphorous export in a small catchment in southeastern Sweden

• DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2023.108595
• Publication Date: 2023-11-16T15:45:26Z
• Authors: Brian Omondi Oduor; Miguel Ángel Camp...; Noemí Lana-Renault; Katarina Kyllmar; Kristina Mårtensson; Javier Casalí
• Keywords: SWAT model; Sedimentation

Agricultural activities contribute to water pollution through sediments and nutrient export, negatively affecting quality aquatic ecosystems. However, implementing best management practices (BMPs) could help control losses from agricultural catchments. This study used the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model assess effectiveness of four BMPs in reducing sediment phosphorus export a small catchment (33 km2) southeastern Sweden. The SWAT was first evaluated for its ability simulate streamflow, load, total phosphorous load 2005 2020. Then, calibrated parameters were BMP scenarios by modifying relevant parameters. performed satisfactorily during calibration validation streamflow (NSE = 0.80/0.84), 0.67/0.69), 0.61/0.62), indicating suitability this study. results demonstrate varying effects implementation on (soluble total) with no significant change streamflow. Filter strips highly effective (−32%), soluble (−67%), (−66%) exports, followed sedimentation ponds −35%, −36%, −50% reductions, respectively. Grassed waterways no-tillage less impactful pollutant reduction, grassed showing slight increase (+4%) having minimal effect (−1.3%) (−0.2%) export. These findings ongoing efforts mitigate Swedish areas, thereby supporting conservation restoration ecosystems, enhancing sustainable practices.