Assessment of the effect of sedimentation on water quality using remote sensing and gis on River Manafwa

Abstract

Sediment transport in the river Manafwa has been identified as a significant factor impacting water quality. Land degradation and sheet erosion contribute to the deposition of topsoil in the water, leading to increased turbidity levels. Hence, there is a recognized need for a reliable method to accurately assess the effects of sedimentation on water bodies on a global scale. Such an approach would greatly assist in the management and preservation of these valuable resources. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model, combined with GIS techniques and ground observations, will be employed to calculate soil loss within the catchment resulting from soil erosion. By using this model, the annual estimated soil loss in the catchment will be determined. The relationship between selected water quality parameters and sediment yield for various water sampling points throughout the catchment will be analysed. This analysis aims to assess the impact of sedimentation on water quality.