Water quality parameters in a water quality model are generally represented by coefficients and rate constants that govern biogeochemical reactions and their pathway fluxes. These parameters are typically temperature-dependent and often require calibration to match specific applications. These parameters are defined within the WQ Parameter Set Editor (WQ Parameter Set Editor – Example). However, before users can define parameters in the WQ Parameter Set, two prerequisite datasets must be created: a Geometry dataset (Chapter 4) and at least one WQ Constituent Set (Chapter 5).

The WQ Parameter Set Editor allows users to create one or more water quality parameter sets and define the parameters within the selected WQ Constituent Set. Water quality parameters are determined by selecting the appropriate libraries and constituents. As described in Chapter 5, the water quality libraries available in the current version of ResSim software include the WTSM, NSMI, and GCSM. Each library simulates a unique set of constituents (see WQ Constituent Set Editor – Table Overview).

 
WQ Parameter Set Editor – Example

Water quality parameter values can be defined either globally or with a base value. The default values provided in the WQ Parameter Set Editor are based on a limited literature review and can be used during the initial stages of model development. If the selected Geometry Dataset contains regions, the parameter values can be defined by specific water quality regions. To complete a WQ Parameter Set, the prerequisites include the creation of a Geometry Dataset and at least one WQ Constituent Set.