UNIT-4 Land and water resources

Physical land suitability

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Physical land suitability refers to the capability of a specific piece of land to support a
particular land use or activity based on its physical characteristics. This assessment is crucial
for effective land and water resource management, as it helps identify the most appropriate
uses for different areas, taking into account factors such as soil types, topography, climate,
and water availability. The concept is applicable to both agricultural and non-
agricultural land uses.

Here are some key factors considered in assessing physical land suitability:

Soil Characteristics:

 Soil texture: The proportion of sand, silt, and clay in the soil affects its water-
holding capacity, drainage, and nutrient availability.
 Soil fertility: The nutrient content of the soil is crucial for plant growth.
 Soil depth: Shallow soils may not be suitable for certain crops or infrastructure.

Topography:

 Slope: Steep slopes may be prone to erosion and may not be suitable for cultivation,
while flat or gently sloping land may be more suitable.
 Aspect: The direction a slope faces can influence sunlight exposure and temperature,
affecting the suitability for certain crops.

Climate:

 Temperature: Different crops have specific temperature requirements for optimal

growth.
 Precipitation: The amount and distribution of rainfall or irrigation water availability
are critical factors for land use planning.
 Growing season: The length of the frost-free period influences the types of crops that
can be cultivated.

Water Availability:

 Access to water resources, such as rivers, lakes, or groundwater, is essential for

many agricultural activities and certain industries.
  Drainage: Proper drainage is important to prevent waterlogging, which can
negatively impact crops.

Land Cover and Land Use:

 Existing vegetation and land cover affect the suitability of land for certain uses.
 Compatibility with surrounding land uses should be considered.

Landform and Geology:

 Geological conditions can affect the stability of structures and suitability for certain
land uses.

Infrastructure and Accessibility:

 Proximity to transportation networks and infrastructure can impact the practicality of

certain land uses.

Environmental Considerations:

 Biotic factors, such as the presence of endangered species or sensitive ecosystems,

should be taken into account.

Assessments of physical land suitability often involve Geographic Information System (GIS)
technology and modeling techniques to integrate and analyze various spatial data layers.
These assessments help in making informed decisions about land use planning, sustainable
agriculture, and natural resource management.
Soil erosion model
Soil erosion modeling is a crucial component of watershed studies, as it helps assess the
impact of land use and management practices on soil loss within a given area. Various
models have been developed to simulate and predict soil erosion processes, allowing
researchers and land managers to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation practices and
make informed decisions about land use planning. Here are some commonly used soil
erosion models in watershed studies:

Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE):

 RUSLE is one of the most widely used models for estimating soil erosion. It
considers factors such as rainfall, soil erodibility, slope length and steepness, cover
management, and support practices.
 RUSLE is often applied with the aid of GIS to analyze spatial variations in soil
erosion risk within a watershed.

Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE):

 USLE is an earlier version of RUSLE and serves as its foundation. It estimates

average annual soil loss based on factors like rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, slope
length and steepness, cover management, and support practices.

Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE):

 MUSLE builds upon the USLE and includes adjustments to better account for the
impact of land management practices, particularly in areas with steep slopes.
Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT):

 SWAT is a comprehensive watershed model that simulates a wide range of

hydrological processes, including soil erosion. It considers factors such as land use,
soil properties, weather, and conservation practices to predict sediment yield and
runoff within a watershed.

Geospatial interface for RUSLE (GeoRUSLE):

 GeoRUSLE integrates RUSLE with GIS technology to provide a spatially explicit

assessment of soil erosion. It allows for the mapping of erosion risk across a
landscape.

Agricultural Non-Point Source Pollution Model (AGNPS):

 AGNPS is a process-based model designed to simulate non-point source pollution

from agricultural areas, including soil erosion and nutrient runoff. It considers factors
such as land use, topography, and management practices.

Limburg Soil Erosion Model (LISEM):

 LISEM is a physically based, distributed model that simulates soil erosion at the
landscape scale. It considers factors such as hydrology, sediment transport, and
vegetation cover.

KINEROS2 (Kinematic Erosion and Runoff Model):

 KINEROS2 is a distributed hydrologic model that simulates surface runoff and

erosion in response to rainfall events. It can be applied to assess soil erosion in
watersheds.
the specific goals of the study, data availability, and the characteristics of the watershed being
investigated. Integrating these models with geographic information systems (GIS) enhances
their capabilities for spatial analysis and decision support in watershed management.

Groundwater sustainability
Groundwater sustainability is a critical aspect of land and water resource management,
especially given the increasing demands on water resources and the potential impacts of
climate change. Sustainable groundwater management involves maintaining the balance
between the extraction of groundwater and its replenishment to ensure the long-term
availability of this valuable resource. Here are some key considerations and strategies for
achieving groundwater sustainability in the context of land and water resources:

Groundwater Monitoring:

 Regular monitoring of groundwater levels and quality is essential to understand the

dynamics of aquifers. Monitoring helps identify trends, assess the impact of
extraction, and detect potential issues such as over-extraction or contamination.

Aquifer Recharge:

 Promoting natural and artificial methods of aquifer recharge is crucial for sustaining
groundwater levels. Natural recharge occurs through processes like infiltration of
precipitation, while artificial recharge involves intentional injection of water into
aquifers.

Land Use Planning:

 Sustainable land use planning considers the potential impact of different activities on
groundwater recharge and quality. Urban development, agriculture, and other land
uses can affect the balance between recharge and extraction.

Water Use Efficiency:

 Improving water use efficiency in agriculture, industry, and domestic sectors helps
reduce overall water demand, alleviating pressure on groundwater resources.
Implementing efficient irrigation practices and water-saving technologies is key.

Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR):

  MAR involves purposeful recharge of aquifers using surface water, treated
wastewater, or other water sources. This can be achieved through techniques like
spreading basins, injection wells, or infiltration galleries.

Legal and Regulatory Frameworks:

 Establishing and enforcing regulations for groundwater extraction is vital. This

includes setting sustainable pumping limits, issuing permits, and monitoring
compliance. A robust legal framework is essential for preventing over-exploitation.

Community Involvement:

 Engaging local communities in groundwater management fosters a sense of

ownership and encourages responsible water use. Community-based initiatives can
contribute to sustainable practices and help in monitoring and enforcement efforts.

Water Banking:

 Water banking involves storing surplus water in wet years for use during dry periods.
This helps stabilize water availability and can be particularly effective in regions with
variable precipitation patterns.

Climate Change Adaptation:

 Considering the potential impacts of climate change on precipitation patterns and

temperature is crucial for sustainable groundwater management. Adapting to these
changes may involve adjusting extraction rates or developing alternative water
sources.

Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM):

 Implementing an integrated approach that considers the interactions between surface

water and groundwater is essential. IWRM takes into account the entire water cycle
and aims to optimize water use across different sources.

Education and Outreach:

 Public awareness and education programs can help promote water conservation
practices and foster a better understanding of the importance of groundwater
sustainability.

By adopting a holistic and integrated approach that combines scientific understanding,

regulatory measures, community engagement, and technological innovations, sustainable
groundwater management can be achieved, ensuring the availability of this vital resource for
future generations.
Watershed and land use planning database
Developing a comprehensive watershed and land use planning database is crucial for
effective watershed studies. Such a database allows researchers, planners, and decision-
makers to store, manage, analyze, and visualize various data layers related to the physical,
hydrological, and land use characteristics of the watershed. Here are key components and
types of data that can be included in a watershed and land use planning database:

Geospatial Data:

 Digital Elevation Model (DEM): High-resolution elevation data representing the

topography of the watershed.
 Land Cover/Land Use Maps: Information about the types and distribution of land
cover and land use in the watershed.
 Soil Maps: Soil types, properties, and classifications within the watershed.
 Hydrography: Rivers, streams, lakes, and other water bodies in the watershed.

Hydrological Data:

 Streamflow Data: Historical and real-time data on river discharge and flow rates.
 Rainfall Data: Spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall across the watershed.
 Evapotranspiration Data: Information on water loss through evaporation and plant
transpiration.

Climate Data:

 Temperature Data: Historical and current temperature records for the watershed
area.
 Precipitation Data: Long-term precipitation records to understand climatic patterns.

Land Use Planning and Zoning:

 Zoning Maps: Information about different zones within the watershed, indicating
permissible land uses and restrictions.
 Land Use Plans: Documents outlining land use goals, policies, and strategies for the
watershed.

Infrastructure Data:

 Transportation Networks: Roads, highways, and other transportation infrastructure.

  Utilities: Location of water supply systems, sewage treatment plants, and other
utilities.

Demographic Data:

 Population Data: Current and projected population figures for areas within the
watershed.
 Urbanization Trends: Information on urban growth and trends.

Conservation and Restoration Areas:

 Conservation Easements: Areas designated for conservation purposes.

 Restoration Projects: Information about ongoing or planned projects for habitat
restoration and conservation.

Water Quality Data:

 Water Quality Monitoring: Data on parameters such as nutrient levels, sediment

concentration, and contaminant presence in water bodies.

Economic Data:

 Agricultural Production: Information on crop types, yields, and agricultural practices.

 Economic Indicators: Data on local economies and industries.

Regulatory and Policy Documents:

 Water Management Plans: Documentation outlining water management strategies and

policies.
 Environmental Regulations: Relevant laws and regulations governing land and water
use in the watershed.

Remote Sensing Imagery:

 Satellite Imagery: High-resolution satellite images for monitoring land cover changes
over time.

Historical Data:

 Historical Land Use: Data on past land use patterns and changes.
 Historical Hydrological Events: Information on floods, droughts, or other
hydrological events.

Implementing a Geographic Information System (GIS) can facilitate the integration and
analysis of these diverse data layers, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the
watershed. This database becomes a valuable tool for informed decision-making in land use
planning, conservation efforts, and sustainable watershed management.
Thematic layers

Thematic layers in the context of geographic information systems (GIS) refer to individual
map layers that represent specific themes or topics. Each thematic layer contains spatial
information related to a particular aspect of the landscape or environment. In the context of
watershed studies and land use planning, thematic layers play a crucial role in understanding
the spatial distribution of various factors and in making informed decisions. Here are some
common thematic layers used in GIS for watershed and land use planning:

Land Cover/Land Use:

 This layer represents the different types of land cover or land use within the
watershed. Categories may include urban areas, agricultural land, forests, water
bodies, etc.

Soil Types:
  Soil type layers provide information on the distribution of different soil types within
the watershed. This is important for assessing soil properties and suitability for
various land uses.

Elevation/Topography:

 Elevation layers, often derived from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), show the
topography of the watershed. This helps in understanding slope, aspect, and overall
terrain characteristics.

Hydrography:

 Hydrography layers include rivers, streams, lakes, and other water bodies. They help
in visualizing the network of water flow within the watershed.

Infrastructure:

 Infrastructure layers include roads, highways, bridges, and other human-made

structures. These layers are essential for understanding accessibility and potential
impacts on the environment.

Zoning and Land Use Plans:

 Zoning layers represent different zones within the watershed, indicating the permitted
land uses and development restrictions. Land use plans provide a spatial guide for
future development.

Vegetation and Habitat:

 These layers represent the distribution of vegetation types and habitat areas, which are
crucial for biodiversity and conservation planning.

Climate Data:

 Climate-related layers may include temperature zones, precipitation patterns, and

other climatic factors that influence the overall environment.

Demographics:

 Demographic layers provide information on population distribution, density, and

other demographic factors within the watershed.

Water Quality Monitoring Stations:

 Locations of water quality monitoring stations, indicating where data on water quality
parameters are regularly collected.

Conservation and Restoration Areas:

  These layers highlight areas designated for conservation purposes or ongoing habitat
restoration projects.

Flood Risk Zones:

 Layers representing areas prone to flooding, based on historical data or predictive

models.

Critical Erosion Areas:

 Layers indicating areas within the watershed that are prone to soil erosion, helping in
the identification of critical areas for conservation and management.

Agricultural Practices:

 Information on the types of crops grown and agricultural practices in different parts of
the watershed.

Wildlife Corridors:

 Layers depicting corridors that facilitate the movement of wildlife within the
landscape.

By integrating and analyzing these thematic layers, GIS allows for a comprehensive
understanding of the spatial relationships and interactions between different elements in the
watershed. This, in turn, supports informed decision-making in land use planning, natural
resource management, and environmental conservation.

Weightage
In the context of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis, "weightage"
refers to assigning relative importance or significance to different features or factors.
Weightage is applied to spatial data layers to influence the outcome of analyses, such as
overlay operations or suitability modeling. It allows users to express the relative influence of
one layer or attribute compared to others in a composite analysis.

Here's how weightage is commonly used:

Overlay Analysis:

 In overlay operations, multiple spatial data layers are combined to create a new layer
that represents the spatial relationship between them. Assigning weights to these
layers can emphasize the importance of certain factors over others in the final result.

Suitability Modeling:

 Weightage is often applied in suitability modeling to determine the most suitable

locations for a particular activity or land use. For example, in land-use planning,
weights might be assigned to factors like soil type, slope, and proximity to water
sources based on their relative importance.

Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA):

 MCDA involves evaluating and comparing different alternatives based on multiple

criteria. Each criterion can be assigned a weight to reflect its significance in the
decision-making process.

Cost-Distance Analysis:

 When determining the cost or distance between locations, weights can be assigned to
factors such as travel time, terrain difficulty, or other variables that affect the overall
cost or distance.

Rasters and Grids:

 In raster-based analysis, each cell in a raster can be assigned a weight, influencing the
impact of that cell on the overall analysis. This is commonly used in modeling
processes like hydrological analysis, where certain areas may contribute more to
runoff than others.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):

 Weightage is used in EIA to assess the significance of potential environmental

impacts associated with a project or development. Different environmental factors are
assigned weights based on their importance.

The process of assigning weights involves considering the relative importance of each factor
in achieving the objectives of the analysis or decision-making process. The weights are often
normalized to ensure that they collectively sum to 1 or 100%, making the analysis more
interpretable.
For example, if you are conducting a suitability analysis for a new development and consider
factors like proximity to roads, schools, and environmental sensitivity, you might assign
weights to these factors based on their relative importance to the project.

weightage in GIS allows for a nuanced and context-specific analysis by accounting for the
varying importance of different factors in spatial decision-making.

Ranking and Rating scale

In watershed studies, ranking and rating scales are commonly used to assess and prioritize
different elements, features, or areas within a watershed. These tools help researchers,
planners, and decision-makers to systematically evaluate and compare various factors based
on predefined criteria. Here's how ranking and rating scales are typically applied in watershed
studies:

Ranking:

 Definition: Ranking involves ordering elements or areas in a watershed based on their

relative importance, performance, or suitability concerning specific criteria.

Criteria Selection:

 Identify the criteria that are relevant to the objectives of the watershed study. These
criteria can include factors like soil erosion potential, water quality, habitat value, or
vulnerability to specific risks.

Data Collection:

 Collect relevant data for each criterion. This may involve field measurements, remote
sensing data, or information obtained from other sources.

Normalization:

 Normalize the data to ensure that all criteria are on a comparable scale. This step is
important for creating a unified ranking system.

Weighting:

 Assign weights to each criterion based on its importance. Some criteria may be more
critical than others in achieving the overall goals of the watershed management.
Scoring:

 Score each element or area within the watershed based on its performance against the
selected criteria. The scoring can be numerical or categorical.

Ranking:

 Calculate the overall ranking for each element or area by combining the scores
according to the assigned weights. This provides a prioritized list of elements or areas
within the watershed.

Rating Scale:

 Definition: Rating involves assigning scores or values to different elements or areas

within a watershed based on predefined criteria.

Criteria Selection:

 Identify the criteria that are relevant to the watershed study objectives.

Data Collection:

 Collect relevant data for each criterion.

Normalization:

 Normalize the data if necessary.

Weighting (optional):

 Assign weights to criteria if a weighted rating system is desired.

Scoring:

 Establish a rating scale (e.g., 1 to 5 or 1 to 10) and score each element or area based
on its performance against the criteria.

Aggregation:

 Aggregate the scores for each element or area to obtain an overall rating.

Interpretation:

 Interpret the ratings to identify areas of concern, potential for improvement, or

priority areas for intervention.

Example:
Consider a watershed study aiming to prioritize sub-watersheds for conservation efforts.
Criteria may include slope, land cover, soil erosion potential, and habitat value. Researchers
assign weights to each criterion, score each sub-watershed, and calculate an overall ranking
or rating.

These approaches assist in making informed decisions about land use planning, conservation
strategies, and resource allocation within a watershed based on a systematic evaluation of
different factors.

Integration
Integration in watershed studies refers to the holistic approach of combining various data
sources, models, and analyses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the physical,
hydrological, ecological, and socio-economic aspects of a watershed. The integration of
information allows researchers, planners, and decision-makers to make more informed and
sustainable decisions related to land use, water management, and environmental
conservation. Here are key aspects of integration in watershed studies:

Data Integration:

Combining data from multiple sources, such as satellite imagery, field measurements,
hydrological data, and socio-economic data, provides a more comprehensive view of the
watershed. Geographic Information System (GIS) technology is often employed for spatial
data integration.

Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA):

 MCDA involves the integration of diverse criteria and data layers to support decision-
making processes. It helps in prioritizing and selecting the best alternatives for land
use planning, conservation, and management.

Hydrological Modeling:

 Integrating hydrological models with spatial data allows for the simulation of water
flow, sediment transport, and pollutant movement within the watershed. Models like
SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) integrate meteorological, topographical,
and land use data to simulate hydrological processes.

Land Use and Land Cover Change (LUCC) Modeling:

  Integrating land use change models with hydrological models helps predict the
impacts of land use changes on water resources, soil erosion, and habitat quality over
time.

Socio-Economic Integration:

 Considering socio-economic factors, such as population growth, urbanization trends,

and economic activities, is crucial for understanding the human dimension of
watershed management. Integrating socio-economic data helps assess the potential
impacts of land use decisions on local communities.

Ecosystem Services Assessment:

 Integrating ecological data with socio-economic data allows for the assessment of
ecosystem services provided by the watershed, such as water supply, nutrient cycling,
and habitat provision. This integration supports the identification of trade-offs and
synergies in land use planning.

Climate Change Integration:

 Considering the potential impacts of climate change on precipitation patterns,

temperature, and extreme weather events is essential. Integrating climate change
scenarios into watershed studies helps assess vulnerability and plan for adaptation
strategies.

Stakeholder Engagement:

 Integrating the perspectives and knowledge of various stakeholders, including local

communities, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, enhances
the effectiveness of watershed management plans. Stakeholder engagement
contributes to the identification of diverse values and priorities.

Decision Support Systems (DSS):

 Integrating data and models into decision support systems provides a user-friendly
platform for decision-makers to explore different scenarios and assess the potential
outcomes of various management strategies.

Temporal Integration:

 Considering temporal dynamics, such as seasonal variations and long-term trends, is

crucial for understanding the resilience and sustainability of the watershed. Temporal
integration allows for dynamic modeling and scenario analysis.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
  Encouraging collaboration between experts from different disciplines, including
hydrology, ecology, geography, and social sciences, promotes a more integrated and
holistic approach to watershed studies.

By integrating these various components, watershed studies can provide a more accurate
representation of the complex interactions within a watershed, leading to more effective and
sustainable land and water resource management.

Suitability classification
Suitability classification in land and water resources involves assessing the appropriateness of
a given area for specific land uses or activities. This process helps in making informed
decisions about land management, land use planning, and resource allocation. Geographic
Information System (GIS) tools are often employed to perform suitability analyses by
integrating and analyzing spatial data layers. Here are key steps and considerations in
suitability classification:

Define Objectives:

Clearly define the objectives of the suitability classification. Understand the specific land use
or activity for which suitability is being assessed. For example, it could be agriculture, urban
development, conservation, or forestry.

Identify Criteria:

Identify the criteria that are relevant to the chosen land use. Criteria may include soil type,
slope, land cover, proximity to water sources, climate, and other factors that influence the
suitability of the land.

Data Collection:

Gather spatial data for each identified criterion. This may involve collecting field data, using
remote sensing imagery, obtaining soil maps, and acquiring climate data. Ensure that the data
are of sufficient quality and resolution for the analysis.

Data Standardization and Normalization:

Standardize the units and normalize the data to ensure that all criteria are on a comparable
scale. This step is crucial for creating a unified classification system.

Weighting:
Assign weights to each criterion based on its importance in achieving the overall objectives.
Some criteria may have a greater influence on suitability than others.

Scoring:

Develop a scoring system to assess the performance of each criterion. For example, you
might score different soil types, slope classes, or land cover types based on their suitability
for the chosen land use.

Integration:

Integrate the criteria by applying the assigned weights and scoring system. This can be done
through GIS overlay operations or suitability modeling techniques.

Classification:

Classify the integrated results into different suitability classes. Common classes include
"highly suitable," "moderately suitable," "marginally suitable," and "not suitable."

Validation:

Validate the suitability classification by comparing it with known conditions or expert

knowledge. This step helps ensure that the classification aligns with real-world conditions.

Map Presentation:

Present the results in map form to visually communicate the suitability of different areas
within the study area. Maps are valuable tools for decision-makers and stakeholders.

Iterative Process:

Suitability classification is often an iterative process. Refine the analysis based on feedback,
new data, or changes in land use objectives.

Consider Multiple Scenarios:

 Evaluate suitability under different scenarios, such as changes in climate, land cover,
or land management practices. This helps in understanding the dynamic nature of land
suitability.

Examples of suitability classifications include agricultural land suitability, urban

development suitability, and ecological habitat suitability. The process allows decision-
makers to identify areas that are most suitable for a particular land use and make informed
choices to optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact.
https://www.slideshare.net/RisikeshThakur/land-suitability-classification

Crop suitability analysis.

Crop suitability analysis in watershed studies involves assessing the appropriateness of
different areas within a watershed for cultivating specific crops. This analysis considers
various factors that influence crop growth and productivity, such as soil characteristics,
climate, topography, and water availability. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools are
often employed to integrate and analyze spatial data layers for a comprehensive assessment.
Here are the key steps involved in crop suitability analysis:

Define Objectives:
Clearly define the objectives of the crop suitability analysis. Understand the specific crops of
interest and the goals of the study, whether it is for optimizing agricultural production,
sustainable land use planning, or identifying suitable areas for specific crops.

Identify Criteria:

Identify the criteria that influence crop suitability. Common criteria include:

 Soil Type: Assess the soil properties such as texture, fertility, and drainage.
 Climate: Consider factors like temperature, precipitation, and growing season length.
 Topography: Evaluate slope, aspect, and elevation, as they influence water runoff
and sunlight exposure.
 Water Availability: Consider sources of irrigation, groundwater availability, and
precipitation patterns.

Data Collection:

 Gather spatial data for each identified criterion. This may involve using soil maps,
climate data, digital elevation models (DEMs), and hydrological data. Remote sensing
imagery can also be used to supplement and update data.

Data Standardization and Normalization:

 Standardize and normalize the data to ensure that all criteria are on a comparable
scale. This step is important for creating a unified classification system.

Weighting:

 Assign weights to each criterion based on its importance for the specific crops of
interest. For example, certain crops may be more sensitive to soil conditions, while
others may require specific temperature ranges.

Scoring:

 Develop a scoring system to assess the performance of each criterion. For instance,
different soil types, climate zones, or topographic features may be scored based on
their suitability for specific crops.

Integration:

 Integrate the criteria by applying the assigned weights and scoring system. GIS
overlay operations or suitability modeling techniques can be used to combine and
analyze the spatial data.

Classification:
  Classify the integrated results into different suitability classes for each crop. Common
classes may include "highly suitable," "moderately suitable," "marginally suitable,"
and "not suitable."

Validation:

 Validate the crop suitability analysis by comparing it with known conditions or expert
knowledge. This step ensures that the classification aligns with actual growing
conditions.

Map Presentation:

 Present the results in map form to visually communicate the suitability of different
areas within the watershed for specific crops. This helps in decision-making and
planning.

Consider Multiple Scenarios:

 Assess crop suitability under different scenarios, such as changes in climate

conditions or land management practices. This helps in understanding the resilience of
crop suitability to various factors.

Crop suitability analysis is valuable for optimizing agricultural practices, guiding land use
planning, and promoting sustainable agriculture within a watershed. It provides insights for
decision-makers, farmers, and stakeholders to make informed choices about crop selection
and land management strategies.