Abstract

The HEMINGS (Hydro-Environmental ModelING tool for GeoSystems) model is a physically-based, distributed hydrological model designed for the integrated simulation of hydrological, geomorphological, and environmental processes in headwater watersheds. Development of the model began with the goal of providing a flexible, modular, and scientifically robust tool capable of explicitly representing the main processes that control runoff generation, infiltration, evapotranspiration, soil erosion, sediment transport, and hydrological connectivity with forestry applications. Since then, HEMINGS has evolved to incorporate new processes, with simulation capabilities progressively presented and validated in scientific publications. This document compiles and systematizes the theoretical formulation, conceptual foundations, and complete computational framework underpinning the model. Its objective is to provide a rigorous description of the physical and numerical foundations of HEMINGS, as well as its modular structure, which allows for its application to a wide variety of problems related to hydrology, erosion, sediment transport, hydrological-forestry restoration, and the assessment of risks associated with extreme events in headwater and mountain watersheds.