Ranking the Prioritization of Sub-Basins Using Morphometric Analysis and Gis tools, Case Study of Baht Watershed, Western Morocco

¹ Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida, Morocco
² Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fes, Morocco
³ Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques of Fez (Annex Taza),

^* Corresponding author: layan.floods@gmail.com

Abstract

Considering the current global climate challenges, the prioritization of watersheds has become increasingly vital for sustainable development. In the past, such assessments relied heavily on manual measurements and calculations, which rendered them impractical and often inaccurate for larger basins. This study harnesses advanced technological capabilities to evaluate and rank 35 sub-basins within the Baht watershed in western Morocco. The primary aim was to classify these sub-watersheds according to their prioritization using morphometric analysis. We utilized ArcGIS software to create drainage networks and delineate sub-watersheds based on a 30-meter resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM). The morphometric parameters were computed using established mathematical formulas and methods. The results show that the upper Baht watershed, which includes SW 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, is of high to very high priority. This implies that we must take immediate action to enhance the land's stability. Conversely, the middle Baht watershed (SW 5, SW 6, and SW 2), except for SW 9 and 10, is classified as low to very low priority. The lower Baht watershed predominantly displays moderate, low, and very low priority classifications, suggesting a degree of resilience among its sub-basins. These findings can assist decision-makers in directing investment projects to areas in need of attention. This study shows that numerical methods can help with figuring out the problems in the basin and strongly suggests that they should be used to describe and prioritize sub-watersheds.