Soil Erosion and Runoff Modeling using GIS, Remote sensing and SWAT model for Keleta Watershed, Ethiopia
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Date
2007-03
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Addis Ababa Universty
Abstract
Soil loss by runoff is the most serious problem in the world today because it is
threatening agriculture and also natural environment. It can cause in lowering the
productivity of a land temporarily or permanently. In order to reverse such kind of
problem assessing the level of problem and finding solution at watershed level is
necessary. Accordingly this study initiated to evaluate the soil loss and runoff
potential spatially and temporarily in Keleta watershed. In order to achieve this
purpose SWAT computer model integrated with GIS and Remote Sensing was
used. Accordingly the runoff and soil loss simulation were done by dividing the
watershed into twenty sub-watersheds. One hydrological response unit was
assigned for each sub-watershed. The simulation result showed that runoff and
soil loss was increased through out the simulation period. This situation was
strongly correlated with the increasing trend of rainfall. Spatially the runoff
amount was correlated with the type of soil and land use system. Chromic
Vertisol and Eutric Cambisol with cultivated land use were characterized by high
runoff potential. The soil loss rate was correlated with type of soil, slope gradient
and land use system. Higher soil loss was observed from Eutric Cambisol, slope
gradient greater than 25% with cultivated land use system. Prioritization of sub
watershed was undertaken based on the degree of soil loss. Remedial measures
were recommended based on the level of priority and type of problem.
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Keywords
Soil Erosion and Runoff Modeling