> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://swatplus.gitbook.io/io-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://swatplus.gitbook.io/io-docs/theoretical-documentation/section-7-main-channel-processes.md).

# Section 7: Main Channel Processes

<figure><img src="/files/tJdU7KZo8reEc88U51Ih" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Flow in a watershed is classified as overland or channelized. The primary difference between the two flow processes is that water storage and its influence on flow rates is considered in channelized flow. Main channel processes modeled by SWAT+ include the movement of water, sediment and other constituents (e.g. nutrients, pesticides) in the stream network, in-stream nutrient cycling, and in-stream pesticide transformations. Optional processes include the change in channel dimensions with time due to downcutting and widening.