Descriptive Fields
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data processing tools play a fundamental role in the OPTAIN analytical framework. Their function is not to support physical deployment of measures, but to enable spatial representation, parameterisation and preparation of model inputs required for predictive simulations.
Within OPTAIN, GIS tools are used to:
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Delineate catchment boundaries and sub-basins
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Characterise land use, soil types and topography
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Identify hydrological connectivity and runoff pathways
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Define spatial allocation options for Natural Small Water Retention Measures (NSWRM)
These spatial datasets form the structural backbone of the modelling environment. By integrating multiple geospatial layers, GIS enables the transformation of raw environmental data into model-ready inputs suitable for hydrological and nutrient transport simulations.
GIS tools therefore ensure:
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Spatial consistency across case studies
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Reproducibility of modelling workflows
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Transparent linkage between field-scale decisions and catchment-scale indicators