Integrating Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques with Conventional Methods to Assess and Characterize Surface and Groundwater Resources of Tendaho Graben, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study focused on water resource assessment through utilization of remote sensing, which is a powerful technique for the collection of multi-temporal synoptic data sets. Geographic Information System (GIS) has been also used for turning large volumes of spatial data into useful information by integrating spatial data such as topography, geology, precipitation, land cover, satellite images etc . for joint analysis. In this study Remote sensing techniques have offered useful information on regional geology, geomorphology, hydrology, soils and land use. Using Landsat 7 ETM + path 167, row 52 drainage conditions, land use/cover, drainage patterns, lineaments and geomorphology (relief, morphology) analysis and interpretation have been made , all of which have influences on the movement and occurrence of groundwater. The interpretation of satellite data in conjunction with sufficient ground truth has made it possible to identify and outline various ground features that serve as direct or indirect indicators of the occurrence of groundwater. Different image processing techniques have been deployed to extract specific information for required analyses. Spatial filtering for tectonic structures identification, False Color Composite for identification of lithology, drainage etc . have been deployed. Through the spatial integration , it is observed that tectonic structures have controlled surface and sub surface water availability of the area. The present works in general have focused on the role of remote sensing and GIS techniques in surface and groundwater resources assessment with limited application of conventional methods. Remote sensing has invaluable capability in groundwater and surface water assessment of an area like this Graben where there is accessibility problem and challenging hot climatic conditions which hinders ground investigations.