Free open-source tool for SWAT calibration, visualization & data import — SWAT-DG

[JoeKHL]

Hi everyone,

I’d like to share a tool we’ve been developing that could save you significant time: SWAT-DG (Diagnostic-Guided SWAT Calibration).

It is a free, open-source desktop application for SWAT2012 (Rev. 681+) that integrates visualization, data import, and calibration into a single interface. Here is a breakdown of what it offers:

1. Instant Visualization

View interactive time-series plots and a GIS map of your subbasins and reaches directly in your browser—no GIS software required. You can overlay simulation outputs directly on the map for immediate spatial context.

2. Automated Data Import

• USGS Integration: Point the app at a USGS gauge, and it automatically pulls streamflow or water quality data. (International sources are in development).

• Flexible Uploads: Drop in your own CSV or Excel files without "reformatting headaches." The app handles unit conversions for you.

3. Diagnostic-Guided Calibration

Rather than running thousands of random parameter combinations, SWAT-DG analyzes your hydrograph like an experienced modeler. It evaluates volume balance, baseflow partitioning, peak response, flow duration statistics, and KGE components to prescribe targeted parameter adjustments.

• Efficiency: Achieve convergence in 5–50 runs instead of 5,000–50,000.

• Result: A physically reasonable parameter set in minutes, not days.

4. Traditional Algorithms & Parallel Support

If you prefer standard methods, we have integrated algorithms via SPOTPY (including SCE-UA, DREAM, Monte Carlo, and LHS). These run in parallel across all your CPU cores. Sensitivity analysis (FAST, Sobol) is also included.

5. Privacy & Accessibility

• 100% Local: Your data stays on your machine. No cloud uploads, license servers, or accounts required.

• No Coding Needed: The app uses a local web-based interface. Just load your project, view the map, import observations, and calibrate—all via point-and-click.

• Power Users: A full Python API is available for those who prefer scripting.

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Get Started:

• Download Releases: https://github.com/wasailin/SWAT-DG

• Documentation: A full user manual is included in the repository.

We would love your feedback, bug reports, or feature requests—especially regarding different SWAT project setups. If you’re interested in collaborating, please reach out to us at Lynxce or open an issue on GitHub.

Best regards,

KH from Lynxce