Modelling catchment land use changes against water yield with satellite multi-temporal data

Abstract

Land-use changes are the main issue which affects the availability of water resources. Water supply is the leading ecosystem service, directly influence the sustainable development of the social economy and ecological systems. This study model the effects of land-use changes in respect of water yield, using Soil water assessment tools (SWAT) model in Sg. Layang catchment, Johor, Malaysia. Changes in Land-use for the period of 2000-2005, 2005-2010 and 2000-2010 obtained through post-classification comparison of Landsat 7 ETM+ data acquired in 2000, 2005 and 2010 using maximum likelihood classifier. The results indicate a rise in water yield, as a result of forest decline as well as an increase in agricultural activities and urbanization. The changes in the forest are found directly proportional to water yield (R2 > 0.85, p < 0.001). It is therefore concluded that the satellite multi-temporal land use changes within the catchment are paramount for monitoring the corresponding water yield in the area. These land use changes to water yield are crucial to assist authorities to create a balance between environmental protection and urban development for sustainable management of water resources.