Impact of land-use, climate change and groundwater abstraction on streamflow droughts using physically-based models

Changes in land-use, climate and groundwater abstractions have an impact on river flows. The effect of these changes on streamflow droughts have been analysed using the models BILAN, HBVMOR, MODFLOW and MOGROW. These models are physically-based and therefore suitable to be used for potential situations with changed conditions which may affect the hydrological system. The models were applied to river basins in The Netherlands (Hupsel, Gulp and Noor), Norway (Haugland) and Scotland (Monachyle). The models were used to simulate the impact of afforestation, climate warming by 2 and 4 degrees C in combination with an adoption of the precipitation changes in groundwater recharge and groundwater abstractions on streamflow droughts. The models are adequate tools to simulate streamflow droughts, and can be used to assess the impact of human activities.