Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
Department of Range and Watershed Management, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
Abstract
Hydrological processes, as part of ecosystem services in drylands, are crucial for effective management and decision-making to preserve ecosystems. Quantitative assessment of ecosystem services is essential for defining various management strategies. Therefore, the objective of this study is to Spatial assessment and analysis of hydrological ecosystem services in the Neyshabur watershed. To this end, the InVEST model was used to determine the quick flow, water yield, erosion, and soil retention in the Neyshabur watershed. The model was calibrated and validated using precipitation, maximum, and minimum temperature data for the periods 1982-1989 and 1990-1993. Then, the monthly precipitation, minimum temperature, and maximum temperature maps were input into the model and executed. The results showed that quick flow is mainly influenced by precipitation. The average annual quick flow and water yield were 34.3 mm and 43.3 mm, respectively. The highest values of quick flow and water yield were observed in Sub-basin 1, while the lowest values were found in Sub-basins 4 and 5. In terms of water yield, these differences were mainly due to climatic conditions and land use types. Soil retention was higher than erosion in all sub-basins. Sub-basin 3, with the highest soil retention, has a greater potential for preventing erosion, while Sub-basin 4 has a lower potential. Forest, shrubland, and scrubland land uses have the greatest ability for soil retention. The findings indicate that Sub-basin 1 requires more precise management to prevent floods and optimize water storage, while forest cover protection is essential for maintaining soil retention services.
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