Using Geowepp model to determine sediment yield and runoff in the Keklik watershed in Kahramanmaras, Turkey

Abstract

GeoWEPP is a geo-spatial interface of the WEPP (The Water Erosion Prediction Project) model that predicts sediment yield and runoff using digital georeferenced information integrated with GIS tools. Besides, the model has ability to determine where the sediment yield and runoff occurs and locates possible deposition places. In this study, GeoWEPP model was used to estimate sediment yield and runoff from Keklik watershed, which is located 12 km from Kahramanmaras in the eastern Mediterranean region. The digital maps of the input files required for GeoWEPP model were generated using GIS tools. The estimated average annual sediment discharge and delivery of watershed were 34533.5 tones and 44.2 tones/ha, respectively. This study indicated that GeoWEPP model can provide decision makers with quick estimation of sediment yield from large watersheds with high accuracy.