A Geospatial Relational Data Model for Ingesting GSSHA Computational Models: A Step Toward Two-Dimensional Hydrologic Modeling in the Cloud

A geospatial relational data model was designed for ingesting the principal model inputs of the Gridded Surface Subsurface Hydrologic Analysis (GSSHA) computational model. GSSHA is a physically-based, two-dimensional distributed hydrologic model maintained by the US Army Corp of Engineers for simulating overland flow and transport. When properly parameterized and calibrated GSSHA can be used to accurately simulate a variety of critical hydrologic processes. Such simulations combined with the ability to analyze changes from land use management practices, climatic conditions, and other future conditions are essential tools for decision and policy makers. Unfortunately, technical know-how acts as a barrier or gap between these individuals and distributed hydrologic scenario exploration. The GSSHA data model represents a foundational step toward creating a cloud-based scenario exploration environment for distributed hydrologic modeling that can be used by a broad range of students, educators, and public officials as a better means to understand the impacts of planned and unintended changes of watershed conditions.