Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Hydrological Characteristics and Drainage Density in Urban and Semi-Urban Areas of Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria

Odoh; Benard Ifeanyi Nwokeabia; Charity Nkiru; Odinye; Arinzechukwu Chukwuebuka

doi:10.56201/rjpst.v7.no3.2024.pg147.163

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Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Hydrological Characteristics and Drainage Density in Urban and Semi-Urban Areas of Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria

Odoh, Benard Ifeanyi Nwokeabia, Charity Nkiru and Odinye, Arinzechukwu Chukwuebuka

Abstract

Understanding hydrological characteristics and drainage patterns is essential for informed watershed management and sustainable land use planning. This study investigates the impact of land use and land cover (LULC) changes between 2017 and 2023 on hydrological characteristics and drainage density in urban and semi-urban areas of Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria. The primary aim is to analyze how LULC changes affect hydrological characteristics and drainage density in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Abia State. The study utilizes satellite imagery, LULC data, and Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) elevation data obtained from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Earth Explorer platform. The LULC classification was performed using supervised classification techniques, while the SRTM DEM data were processed to derive slope and drainage density. Change detection analysis was used to compare LULC maps from 2017 and 2023, and drainage density was calculated using the total length of streams and rivers divided by the area of the basin. The results reveal significant LULC changes over the six-year period, with a notable reduction in forested areas and an increase in built-up and agricultural land. The spatial analysis showed higher drainage densities in urban centers compared to rural areas, indicating increased surface runoff and reduced infiltration in urbanized zones. The reduction in forest cover and expansion of impervious surfaces due to urbanization have altered the hydrological characteristics of the region. High drainage densities in urban areas lead to increased runoff, posing risks of erosion and flooding. Conversely, rural areas with lower drainage densities exhibit better infiltration and groundwater recharge capabilities. These findings underscore the need for sustainable urban planning and effective watershed management practices. The study highlights the critical impact of LULC changes on hydr

Keywords

Environmental ManagementGroundwater RechargeSedimentary Formations

References

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Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Hydrological Characteristics and Drainage Density in Urban and Semi-Urban Areas of Abia State, Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

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