Identifying Nutrient Export Hotspots Using a Spatially Distributed Model in Boreal-Forested Catchments

The implementation of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) aimed to reduce nutrient export from catchments water courses. Forest operations cause diffuse loading, which challenges efficient targeting protection measures. We formed 100 equally probable clear-cut scenarios, investigate how location clear-cuts influenced total nitrogen (TN) and phosphorous (TP) on different scales. was calculated by using a distributed model (NutSpaFHy). clear-cut-induced excess TN TP exports varied 4.2%–5.5% 5.0%–6.5%, respectively, between scenarios. analyzed sub-catchment characteristics regulated background export. results also suggested that there no single feature, explained variation in exports. There were clear differences sub-catchments. found only 5% forest area could contribute up half Based our results, we presented conceptual planning framework, applied finding areas where high. Application this information improve overall effectiveness measures used forestry.