Can Remote Sensing-Based Geomorphometric Analysis Combined with LULC Provide Greater Insights for Prioritizing Soil and Water Conservation Measures in Data-Scarce Semi-Arid Regions?

Assessing erosion risk is essential for implementing effective soil and water conservation (SWC) measures, a task especially challenging in data-scarce, semi-arid regions of India. This study addresses these complexities by employing a comprehensive prioritization approach to enhance erosion management efficiency in the Devgadh Baria Watershed (DBW) in Gujarat, India. The primary goal is to systematically prioritize sub-watersheds (SWs) using geomorphometric and land use/land cover (LULC) analyses, followed by recommendations for targeted SWC interventions in high-priority areas. Through remote sensing (RS) and geographical information system (GIS) techniques, the study delineates SWs and evaluates their vulnerability based on seven key morphometric parameters and LULC classifications, including agricultural land, forest, wasteland, and built-up areas. By integrating these parameters, the analysis yields compound values for each of the 30 SWs, resulting in a refined prioritization ranking. Notably, SW26, initially ranked as very high priority due to steep slopes and low drainage density, shifted to medium priority in the combined analysis, highlighting effective agricultural practices that reduce erosion. Meanwhile, SW7 maintained its very high priority ranking across analyses, reflecting persistent erosion risk from extensive built-up areas and limited forest cover. SW30 moved from high to medium priority, influenced by balanced agricultural activities and gentler slopes, while SWs 6 and 24 dropped from very high to medium priority. SW22 remained a high priority, benefiting from moderate forest cover and soil types that mitigate erosion. This research emphasizes the scientific value of integrating morphometric and LULC analyses for accurate SW prioritization. The combined approach enhances erosion risk assessment, facilitating targeted SWC strategies vital for watershed management in semi-arid regions. These findings offer actionable insights that support global sustainability goals, contributing to improved soil conservation and water resource management.