Scientists created a model to predict water runoff in Xitiaoxi, a vital area in Lake Taihu. They used rainfall data from 1968-1988 to fine-tune the model. The model matches observed runoff well and suggests most runoff could be from saturated ground. Water levels near streams respond quickly to rain, while deep groundwater levels change yearly. This suggests the flow of water and pollutants in the area, paving the way for more detailed modeling.