Zavkhan River and Its Catchment Area Delineation Using Satellite Image

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to define initial parameters of Khyargas Lake-Zavkhan River and its catchment area using satellite images. The study has been done by two datasets: 1) Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) at a horizontal spatial resolution of 90 meters, 2) The Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) at a horizontal spatial resolution of 30 meters, using two different models of ArcHydro and Integrated Land and Water Information System (ILWIS) softwares. Main methods of models, that were used in this research are the Deterministic-8, the steepest slope, the spread, the seek computations and the trace analysis. Moreover, input data of the modeling are digital elevation model (DEM) and lake position, outlet location of the river. DEM based ArcHydro model was run on the both datasets, and ILWIS model was run on SRTM data. Several intermediate results were produced while the models run, and initial parameters of the Zavkhan River, its catchment area have been defined at the end of the model. Moreover, final results of the models were compared with each other and with the result of previous research, and with the reality. The result of this study can be used in baseline and advanced research on the catchment area. Besides of that, the result can define a spatial boundary of study on Zavkhan River and its catchment area. Moreover, it would have supported for decision-making on ground and surface water resource, distribution and management. Further research, which will cover the entire territory of Mongolia, has to be done using same methodology. The 332 nd decision on “River catchment areas of Mongolia” of the Minister of Nature, Environment and Tourism in 2009 has to renew, if a result of that study would be accepted from vocational organization and experts.