Technical Abstract: Well calibrated models are cost-effective tools used to quantify environmental benefits of conservation practices, but lack of data for calibration remains a weakness to modeling. Research was conducted in southwestern Oklahoma within the Cobb Creek sub-watershed to develop more cost effective methods to collect parameterization and validation data for modeling in watersheds with sparse data. Specifically, applying simple geomorphic observations to parameterize the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model stream channel variables, and using long-term average annual reservoir sedimentation rate measured at the Crowder Lake using the acoustic profiling system (APS) to validate sediment delivery rate simulated by SWAT. Additionally, validated SWAT model was used to simulate impacts of riparian buffer and Bermuda grass filter strip buffer on sediment yield and concentration in the stream outlet. SWAT was calibrated for streamflow and sediment, and the APS bathymetric survey was used to independently validate average annual sediment. Based on the sediment bulk densities ranging from 450 to 950 kg m-3, the average annual reservoir sedimentation rate ranged from 1.2 to 2.6 mt ha-1 yr-1 compared to simulated sediment rate of 1.9 mt ha-1 yr-1. Application of buffer strips across cropped fields resulted in a 72% reduction of sediment delivery to the stream, while the riparian buffer and the combined riparian buffer and buffer strip reduced the suspended sediment concentration at the sub-watershed outlet by 67% and 70%, respectively. Effective riparian practices have potential to increase reservoir life. These results indicate promise for rapid, cost effective methods to improve hydrologic modeling to support assessments of management and policy alternatives.