About | SWATGenX

SWATGenX was built because watershed modeling should no longer depend on outdated, fragmented, coarse-scale workflows. We need a centralized, inspectable pipeline that uses high-resolution national data to prepare SWAT+ models consistently across the CONUS, so a model built for one watershed shares the same modeling backbone, rules, and scale logic as a model built anywhere else.

SWATGenX exists to move practitioners past the slowest part of modeling: assembly. By automating the repetitive 80% of clipping, routing, weather, soils, land cover, QA, and file preparation, it lets users spend more time on the work that actually changes decisions: calibration, analysis, TMDLs, BMP targeting, contaminant transport, and watershed management.

National watershed modeling should not mean coarse watershed modeling. Local decisions require local detail—small channels, ponds, subbasins, and catchments that coarse frameworks often smooth away. SWATGenX uses NHDPlus HR to bring national-scale automation closer to the resolution needed for township-, neighborhood-, and BMP-scale decisions.

SWATGenX is not locked behind a registration wall. It is open to inspect before anyone commits. Visitors can explore the app, navigate the Watershed Explorer, and download example model packages without being forced to register.

SWAT+ packages
Real model projects you can inspect and extend—not map-only views
NHDPlus-HR
High-resolution surface-water backbone for model generation
Same workflow
USGS gages, outlet HUC12 watersheds, and full HUC8 basins

Our mission

Our mission is to make high-quality watershed model preparation scalable. SWATGenX does not replace hydrologic judgment, calibration, or validation—it removes the repetitive data-engineering burden so teams reach modeling work faster.

Let modelers spend less time assembling inputs and more time understanding watersheds.

What we believe

  • Public national data and SWAT+ should connect through a reliable, inspectable pipeline—not ad hoc desktop folders.
  • Transparency and repeatability matter as much as raw map polish.
  • Automation should accelerate science, not hide uncertainty or replace professional review.

What SWATGenX does — and does not

What we deliver

  • CONUS watershed exploration and USGS / HUC-based selection
  • Screening layers for streamflow status, drought, precipitation, population, cropland, and streams
  • Automated PDF watershed reports
  • Downloadable SWAT+ model packages and a public example catalog
  • API access for repeatable model requests

What we do not claim

We do not claim that every generated model is calibrated, validated, or ready for regulatory use. Treat downloads as model-ready starting points: inspect, calibrate, and validate for your study purpose.

For limits and liability, see the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Why we built it

National datasets already exist. SWAT+ already exists. The missing layer is a reliable system that connects those resources into usable watershed model packages at scale.

SWATGenX is that layer: turning public environmental data into inspectable, downloadable, high-resolution SWAT+ setups.

Built by hydrologists, for real modeling work

SWATGenX was developed from years of experience in hydrologic modeling, water-quality modeling, PFAS fate and transport, groundwater–surface water interaction, agricultural water management, and environmental software development. It is modeling infrastructure—not a generic mapping app.

Led by Vahid Rafiei. Questions or partnerships: LinkedIn or info@swatgenx.com.

Start with the watershed

Explore a basin, inspect structure, download an example, or generate a new SWAT+ model.

Page updated 2026-05-07.