Application of analytical hierarchy process for the evaluation of climate change impact on ecohydrology: The case-of Azraq Basin in Jordan

Abstract

This study is related to ecohydrology which incorporates the use of ecosystem properties as a management tool in implementing a program of water resource management. The methodology adopted to assess the impact of climate change on ecohydrology in Azraq basin is based on water balance equation, US Soil Conservation Service Method (SCS), Penman-Monteith model, statistical correlation with meteorological data and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Scenarios are developed to reflect the extent of variations in both temperature and rainfall. Climate changes are addressed at three levels; local, national and regional. The study concluded that under the condition of increased temperatures and precipitation fluctuations, the overall mean annual recharge for the Azraq basin would decrease. Both results of AHP analysis and stochastic model indicated that the expected significant impact of climate change on ecohydrology will be at local level in the long term. © 2009 Asian Network for Scientific Information.