Geomorphometric Analysis of Baseflow Recharge in Aquifer Groundwater Assessment

Abstract

The inadequate understanding of geomorphometric impacts on the formation of groundwater baseflow recharge calls for an intuitive tool for managing the invisible dynamic water formation system. This study investigates the factors responsible for baseflow recharge formation and also determines the influence of geomorphometric parameters in the formation of baseflow in groundwater recharge of the Mthatha River Catchment (MRC) in South Africa. Specifically, the study evaluates the relationship between morphometric, geological, land-use, and hydrometeorological variables and determines their influence on baseflow recharge formation. The arc hydro-statistics tools in quantum geographical information system (QGIS) were used to process the aster digitized elevation model (DEM) for land, soil, and geology with meteorological rainfall and temperature data in (QSWAT) to process the correlation factors that influence baseflow recharge formation. The results show bifurcation ratio, drainage density, and relief ratio values of 0.0034, 0.0056, and 1.232, respectively. The strong correlation coefficient of 0.76 obtained for land use/landcover variables and other hydrogeological characteristics of the area depicts a significant contribution in circulation flow movement for the likelihood of sufficient water yield for the study area. Decision-makers would find the study’s outcome useful in visualizing the invisible controlling variables for baseflow recharge and runoff generations.