Author(s): Manish Pandey; Shravankumar S. M; N. V. Umamahesh
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Morphometric analysis basin morphology Watershed management
Abstract: This study investigates the relationship between watershed morphometry and quality using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), to isolate key drivers relating to both physical and chemical aspects. Key parameters, including Circulatory Ratio, Basin Area and Stream Frequency were combined with water quality metrics such as pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Carbonates. Analysis revealed that structural basin characteristics had a profound influence on water chemistry. PC1 highlighted how basin shape affected pH and E. C levels while PC2 highlighted how basin size and drainage density played an essential part in mineral transport. These insights suggest targeted management strategies such as sediment control and riparian buffers to address mineral buildup in larger basins and maintain balanced water chemistry, especially those focused on sustainable watershed management with tailored interventions to mitigate any negative environmental impact. They demonstrate the value of combining morphometric monitoring and water quality monitoring for more holistic watershed administration and reduce environmental impact through tailored interventions. PCA results provide actionable insights, showing the interdependent roles played by morphometry and water chemistry in watershed ecosystems. They support tailored management approaches focused on minimizing structural disruptions and implementing sediment control measures for larger basins - both strategies crucial in protecting resources while mitigating environmental degradation, calling into question any need for integrated monitoring programs combining both types of monitoring.
Year: 2025