Interception water

Interception refers to precipitation that does not reach the soil but is instead retained by leaves, branches, and the forest floor. It occurs in two main areas: the canopy (canopy interception) and the forest floor (forest floor interception). Evaporation typically leads to a loss of intercepted water from the drainage basin, except in cases like fog interception, which can enhance flood protection. Intercepted snowfall generally does not evaporate significantly; it either melts or is blown away by wind, potentially drifting outside the watershed. Conifers have a higher interception capacity than hardwoods due to their needle-like leaves, which provide more surface area for water retention and are present during critical seasons like spring and fall.

Mitscherlich (1971) studied water storage potential through interception, finding that a storm event producing 50–100 mm of rainfall might intercept up to 4 mm. Grah and Wilson (1944) conducted experiments watering plants to measure retained water post-stopping. In temperate climates, trees such as Norway maple and small-leaved lime intercept around 38% of precipitation. Interception depends on the leaf area index and leaf type. The effects of interception can either increase or reduce erosion based on throughfall dynamics.

Interception plays a crucial role in hydrological processes, influencing water availability and ecosystem dynamics.