The role of topography in controlling throughflow generation

Previous studies of the downslope movement of soil moisture have been largely confined to two-dimensional slope profiles—the influence of contour curvature (three-dimensional) on moisture movement has received little attention. An automatic tensiometer system has been used to monitor soil moisture status continuously in a single hollow and adjacent spurs. Maximum saturated hillslope flow is shown to coincide with the stream discharge ‘throughflow peak’. Relative to the hollow, little saturation is evident at the base of the spurs. This subcatchment model is applied to a major portion of the catchment, showing the general importance of topography in the control of stream discharge.