Experimental design of hydrologic land-use studies: A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Agricultural Science with Honours in the University of Canterbury [Lincoln College]

Abstract

This investigation was originally concerned with the analysis of runoff data from 17 runoff plots established by the New Zealand Forest Service near Christchurch, New Zealand. In the course of this analysis the author's attention was drawn to the fallacies and shortcomings inherent in the experimental methods currently used in hydrologic investigations. Both experimental designs and techniques of analysis appear to be especially inadequate in studies concerned with the effects of basin characteristics, vegetation, land-use, etc. on basin runoff. The basic purpose of this thesis is to examine the problems associated with the planning and analysis of hydrologic experiments and to suggest possible alternatives to the techniques in current use. Many of these suggestions are made in relation to the International Hydrological Decade Experimental Basins which are proposed to be set up in New Zealand.