Spatial assessment of potential runoff harvesting sites in Watershed systems. (A case of study: Golbahar watershed)

Water harvesting can be used to minimize water loss and augment water supplies in watershed systems. Water scarce countries such as some parts of Iran are facing to poor rainfall distribution. Recent initiatives focus to explore more efficient alternatives to water supply and recognition of numerous opportunities to implement runoff harvesting as a means to supplement water availability. The most important step in making use of rainwater harvesting systems is site selection appropriate. Identifying appropriate areas for water harvesting systems results. The aim of this research is developing a framework for spatial assessment of rain water harvesting potential. To assess the potential for runoff generation, A conceptual model of rainfall- runoff has been applied. Integrating this conceptual model and Arc GIS, spatial distribution of runoff potential across the study area has been estimated. Then, prioritization of areas and sub watershed for surface water harvesting Purposes has been carried out based on physical and economic index. The benefit/cost indicator has been use in the economic analysis. The results shows that these economically prioritized sub watershed are those with higher total amount of surface water harvesting potential while have lower establishment costs. It worth to mention that an extensive data set has been used for the spatial assessment purpose, The proposed methodology improve the capability for water resource management in the Golbahar and other similar watersheds.