> 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/water-routing.md). # Water Routing Open channel flow is defined as channel flow with a free surface, such as flow in a river or partially full pipe. SWAT+ uses Manning’s equation to define the rate and velocity of flow. Water is routed through the channel network using the variable storage routing method or the Muskingum river routing method. Both the variable storage and Muskingum routing methods are variations of the kinematic wave model. A detailed discussion of the kinematic wave flood routing model can be found in Chow et al. (1988). --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://swatplus.gitbook.io/io-docs/theoretical-documentation/section-7-main-channel-processes/water-routing.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.