Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

Vol. 19 Issue 04, 2013; Page No.(1067-1072)

DIGITAL TERRAIN MODELLING OF A SMALL MICRO - WATERSHED USING GIS IN KARAMANA RIVER BASIN, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Smitha Asok V. and Similal K.

Abstract

Digital Terrain Models are being increasingly used in Geographical Information Systems, for visualisation of landscapes as well as quantitative calculations of erosion risk, drainage conditions and the like. The present study aims to undertake a terrain modelling of a small micro watershed of Karamana river with the perspective of water shed management in the area. GIS based terrain models can provide a spatial element with the analysis of variables such as slope, aspect and watershed or catchment area. This study was carried out using FOSS GIS in a small micro watershed in the Karamana river basin to understand the basic principles and utility of this tool in identifying areas of specific topographic land forms. On the basis of the TPI (Topographic Position Index) values calculated, ten topographic landform units were identified such as high ridges, mid-slope ridges, local ridges, upper slopes, open slopes, plains, valleys, upland drainages, mid-slope drainages and streams. Such a clear and scientific perspective of the environmental setting of a region is the basic pre-requisite for the formulation of conservation and management of our basic landscape units viz. watersheds.

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